With Ben Johnson’s impending departure, Tanner Engstrand is the natural successor to keep Detroit’s offense firing on all cylinders.

As the Detroit Lions continue to rise in the NFL standings, the spotlight has also shifted to their offensive coordinator, Ben Johnson. After three successful seasons with the Lions, Johnson’s impact on the offense has made him one of the most sought-after head coaching candidates in the league. However, with success often comes transition, and while the prospect of losing Johnson is a challenge, the Lions have a clear internal candidate ready to keep their offensive juggernaut rolling: Tanner Engstrand.

The Need for Continuity: Engstrand’s Familiarity with the System

One of the key factors in maintaining a high-performing offense is consistency. Tanner Engstrand has been a part of the Lions’ coaching staff for five seasons and has worked closely with both head coach Dan Campbell and Johnson. This familiarity with the team’s offensive philosophy and strategies means Engstrand could step in seamlessly, ensuring minimal disruption. As Engstrand knows the intricacies of the offense, he can maintain the flow and rhythm that Johnson has established.

“Promoting Engstrand would ensure that the system the Lions have built under Ben Johnson remains in place, with minimal disruption to the offensive rhythm,” said a team insider. In a sport where chemistry and rhythm are crucial to success, Engstrand’s ability to preserve the existing system would be an invaluable asset to the Lions’ offense.

Engstrand’s Proven Experience: Ready for the Next Step

Though Engstrand has not yet been a play-caller in the NFL, he is far from inexperienced. Before joining the Lions, he was the offensive coordinator at the University of San Diego, where he built a reputation for his innovative and dynamic offensive schemes. Additionally, his time as the offensive coordinator for the D.C. Defenders in the XFL provided him with professional-level coaching experience, further refining his skills.

This extensive background has equipped Engstrand with the knowledge and tools necessary to handle an NFL coordinator role. As he continues to work under Ben Johnson’s tutelage, it’s clear that Engstrand has the potential to rise to the occasion, just as Johnson did in his earlier years.

The Lions’ Offensive Success: A Testament to Engstrand’s Skills

Tanner Engstrand’s influence on the Lions’ offense is already evident. In 2023, under his guidance as passing game coordinator, the Lions finished with the second-best passing attack in the league, amassing 4,401 net passing yards, and were tied for fourth with 30 passing touchdowns. They also set franchise records for total net yards (6,712) and total touchdowns (58). Through the first 10 games of the 2024 season, the Lions continue to boast the No. 1 ranked offense in football, a testament to Engstrand’s ability to shape and elevate the team’s play.

With Engstrand at the helm, the Lions’ offense has not only flourished but has set a new standard of excellence, making him the ideal candidate to step in and continue the work Johnson has begun.

A Smooth Transition for Jared Goff and the Lions Offense

For quarterback Jared Goff, continuity will be key in maintaining his success. Goff has thrived under Johnson’s coaching, and Engstrand’s promotion would allow him to continue working within a system he is already comfortable with. This would also ensure that the offensive unit, which has developed a strong bond, maintains its chemistry.

“Engstrand’s promotion would ensure that Goff and the rest of the offense continue to work within a system they know,” said a source close to the team. “This continuity is crucial for maintaining high levels of production and success.”

Why Tanner Engstrand is the Smart Choice

If Ben Johnson departs for a head coaching opportunity, Tanner Engstrand is the natural choice to keep the Lions’ offensive momentum going. His deep understanding of the system, combined with his proven track record, positions him as the ideal candidate to lead Detroit’s offense forward. Bringing in an outsider could risk disrupting the team’s chemistry, particularly with key players like Goff who thrive under familiarity and consistency.

By promoting Engstrand, the Lions would be able to preserve the offensive success they’ve enjoyed under Johnson, ensuring a smooth transition that doesn’t jeopardize their championship aspirations. In an era where continuity is often the key to success, keeping things steady with Engstrand would be a wise and forward-thinking move for the Detroit Lions.