As the next NFL coaching search approaches, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is expected to once again be a top candidate for head coaching vacancies.

His track record over the past three seasons, leading an offense that has become both highly productive and exciting, makes it clear why he’s in high demand.

Johnson’s reputation as a skilled strategist is undeniable, and it’s no surprise that teams have targeted him in the last two hiring cycles.

However, while Johnson continues to garner significant attention, there is another member of the Lions coaching staff who also deserves much more recognition—Aaron Glenn, the Lions’ defensive coordinator.

Though Glenn may not have received the same level of spotlight as Johnson during the interview process, his contribution to the Lions’ resurgence has been just as impactful.

Detroit’s head coach, Dan Campbell, made a brilliant decision in hiring both Johnson and Glenn, as their leadership has been pivotal to the team’s turnaround.

Though Glenn hasn’t achieved the same public recognition as his counterpart Johnson, he has been essential to the Lions’ defense, particularly in light of several key injuries this season.

As Campbell’s right-hand man, Glenn has earned admiration across the NFL for his ability to adapt and keep the defense competitive despite substantial losses.

One of the most notable setbacks came in Week 6 when star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, who was leading the NFL in sacks and pressures, broke two bones in his leg and had to undergo season-ending surgery.

Glenn was already dealing with the absence of defensive end Marcus Davenport, who was lost for the season in Week 3. Despite these injuries, Glenn’s defense has continued to perform admirably.

Campbell, who has known Glenn since their playing days with the Dallas Cowboys, speaks highly of his work ethic, preparation, and leadership. Campbell describes Glenn as someone who has the ability to bring out the best in those around him, both coaches and players.

He emphasizes that Glenn is the kind of coach any NFL owner should be eager to hire to run their own team.

As the Lions, who currently lead the NFC North, prepare to face the Indianapolis Colts, Glenn continues to make the right decisions in managing a defense missing several key pieces.

The loss of Hutchinson was a major blow, but Glenn’s ability to adjust and find new ways to use his remaining players has kept the defense performing at a high level.

This season, the Lions are allowing just 17.7 points per game and only 94.8 rushing yards, ranking fifth in the league in both categories. These results are a testament to Glenn’s coaching prowess.

Troy Vincent, the NFL’s vice president of football operations, praised Glenn for his leadership and coaching skills, saying that Glenn’s growth as both a player and coach has been extraordinary.

Vincent highlighted the dramatic improvement of the Lions’ defense under Glenn’s guidance, something that’s hard to ignore when evaluating his coaching credentials.

Glenn’s journey to coaching began after a successful 15-year playing career in the NFL, which included stints with the New York Jets, Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New Orleans Saints.

A three-time Pro Bowl cornerback, Glenn transitioned into coaching and eventually took over the Saints’ secondary under Sean Payton.

During that time, he forged a close relationship with Campbell, who was coaching tight ends for the Saints.

When Campbell became the Lions’ head coach in 2021, he brought Glenn with him to lead the defense.

Glenn’s hiring has been a crucial part of the Lions’ revival, and Campbell has been a staunch advocate of Glenn’s abilities ever since.

Prior to Campbell’s arrival, the Lions had suffered through decades of mediocrity, including a winless 0-16 season in 2008. The team had not won a division title since 1993 and hadn’t won a playoff game since 1991.

But under Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes, the Lions have made significant strides, achieving both a division title and a playoff victory last season.

While the offense, led by Johnson, has been the more immediate success, Glenn’s defense has also played a key role in the team’s improvement.

Despite his relative anonymity compared to Johnson, Glenn has interviewed for head coaching positions during the past three hiring cycles and has drawn praise for his leadership and coaching acumen.

As the current NFL hiring season approaches, many believe that Glenn is well-positioned to be a serious contender for a head coaching job.

Campbell is confident that Glenn is ready for that step, emphasizing his exceptional ability to put together a game plan, communicate effectively, and lead a team.

“He’s special,” Campbell says of Glenn, highlighting his combination of leadership skills, football knowledge, and ability to connect with players.

Glenn’s coaching philosophy is grounded in authenticity. He believes that the most important quality for a leader is influence—how a coach impacts the players and staff around them.

He doesn’t rely on motivational speeches or empty gestures, but instead focuses on building trust, understanding, and respect.

According to Glenn, leadership is about creating an environment where players feel empowered and motivated to perform at their best.

His ability to influence and guide players, rather than merely instructing them, has made him a standout coach in the league.

The buzz around Glenn’s potential as a head coach continues to grow.

Rod Graves, the executive director of the Fritz Pollard Alliance, which advises the NFL on diversity and inclusion in hiring, has been particularly vocal about Glenn’s qualifications.

He believes Glenn has firmly established himself as one of the NFL’s top coaches, with a strategic mind and a clear impact on the Lions’ defense.

Graves notes that the Lions have adopted a mentality of toughness and attention to detail, and much of that can be credited to Glenn’s coaching style.

Graves also expects Glenn to be a serious candidate for head coaching jobs in the coming hiring cycle.

In fact, Graves suggests that Glenn may be the first member of the Campbell coaching tree to secure a head coaching position.

Vincent echoes this sentiment, stating that Glenn’s track record speaks for itself and that there is no doubt he should be considered for any coaching vacancy that arises.

Although Ben Johnson remains the more high-profile candidate for head coaching jobs, it’s clear that Aaron Glenn’s time is coming. As the Lions continue to build on their success, it’s only a matter of time before Glenn receives the recognition he deserves.

His leadership, football IQ, and ability to adapt under pressure make him one of the brightest coaching prospects in the NFL today.

Glenn’s journey from a standout player to a respected defensive coordinator has not been easy, but his ability to overcome challenges and inspire his players has made him one of the top coaching candidates in the NFL.

His future as a head coach seems all but certain, and it’s only a matter of when—not if—he will be given the opportunity to lead a team. Whether it’s with the Lions or another franchise, Aaron Glenn is a coach on the rise, and NFL owners would be wise to take notice.

In conclusion, while Ben Johnson’s offensive prowess has garnered more attention, Aaron Glenn’s contributions to the Detroit Lions’ turnaround are equally deserving of recognition.

Glenn’s coaching philosophy, leadership, and ability to adapt in difficult situations have proven to be invaluable to the team’s success.

As the NFL coaching search heats up, Glenn’s name should be at the top of any list of potential head coaches.

His ability to lead, motivate, and inspire players is undeniable, and it’s only a matter of time before he gets the opportunity to take the reins of his own team.