Detroit’s two highly coveted coordinators can now engage in in-person interviews following their team’s playoff exit. Additionally, here’s the outlook for the Cowboys, Jets, Jaguars, Bears, Raiders, and Saints, outlining their coaching plans.

Johnson can now meet with teams face-to-face after Detroit’s playoff loss.

Good morning, and welcome to the Monday after Black Monday, which this year is filled with nearly as much drama as the main event (although we acknowledge that the day following the regular season can be one of the toughest for many in the industry). With the Detroit Lions’ shocking playoff loss to the Washington Commanders, both of their in-demand coordinators, who have been central to the head coaching conversations of several teams, are now free to conduct in-depth, in-person interviews.

Given the current state of the market, it’s a perfect time to reassess our predictions about where coaches might land. My read on the situation right now is that everyone is closely watching Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. I sense Johnson will be methodical in his decision-making over the next few days. He’s Plan A in at least two, possibly three, locations.

Though the coaching dynamics have shifted, it’s clear that this is still the “Johnson sweepstakes.” Attracting him will be a real test of a team’s ownership and financial commitment.

That said, it’s worth noting that Kliff Kingsbury won’t begin his interviews until after the season concludes. Kingsbury’s stock surged during 2024, especially due to his work with Jayden Daniels, which continued into the playoffs. While Kingsbury’s future is intriguing, it’s unclear how many teams are willing to wait for the Commanders to finish their season, or if Kingsbury will even be interested in the remaining openings, especially since he’s expressed a desire to be more selective in his second coaching cycle.

Dallas Cowboys

Plan A: Create maximum buzz and then hire Kellen Moore.

Plan B: Robert Saleh

Could the Cowboys pursue a high-profile coach in this search? It’s possible. Jerry Jones has his approach, and when the Cowboys parted ways with Mike McCarthy, we anticipated that Jones would open up the coaching search. Moore offers familiarity, bolstering Jones’ coaching pipeline and ensuring Moore would be ready for the pressures of the job. He also likely allows Jones to bring in known faces for the staff. However, Saleh has shown a strong ability to manage tough situations with an adult-in-the-room mentality, and the defensive players in Dallas would likely embrace him.

New York Jets

Plan A: Aaron Glenn

Plan B: Matt Nagy/Arthur Smith

Glenn is now available to be hired. The Jets could target a coach who wouldn’t be seen as just a defensive mind. Glenn’s success in Detroit, especially given the Lions’ personnel losses, impressed many and showed his ability to maximize the potential of even a thin roster. Most importantly, Glenn’s background in one of the most significant sports turnarounds in recent years will resonate with the Jets. Should Glenn be pursued elsewhere, the Jets have other options with experienced coaches ready for another head coaching role.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Plan A: Ben Johnson

Plan B: Liam Coen

Shad Khan seemed proud of his hiring of Urban Meyer before the disastrous end, and the pursuit of Johnson feels reminiscent of that time. Johnson’s success with Jared Goff in Detroit, helping elevate him to MVP-caliber play, makes him an attractive option for Jacksonville, particularly for the development of Trevor Lawrence. Coen, currently in Tampa Bay, is also considered a strong backup option. However, it’s important to note that Jacksonville intends to retain Trent Baalke as GM, and Khan places significant trust in Baalke.

Chicago Bears

Plan A: Ben Johnson

Plan B: Mike McCarthy/Kliff Kingsbury

Chicago’s broad coaching search puts them in a good position to select the best candidate. There was significant momentum toward McCarthy, especially following his departure from the Cowboys and immediate interview with the Bears. McCarthy, known for his work with quarterbacks, could help guide Caleb Williams’ development. However, now that Johnson is available for interviews, the Bears could swoop in for a high-profile hire, making a strong move against division rivals. The Bears have connections that could make Johnson an attractive candidate.

Las Vegas Raiders

Plan A: Ben Johnson

Plan B: Pete Carroll

Similar to Jacksonville, the Raiders are drawn to Johnson and have a general manager candidate who may tip the scales in his favor. Despite the franchise’s struggles, the blank slate in Las Vegas appeals to some coaches, particularly if paired with a GM who shares the same vision. If Johnson chooses another opportunity, Carroll could be a fallback, offering veteran leadership to stabilize the team and establish a more consistent culture.

New Orleans Saints

Plan A: Aaron Glenn

Plan B: Joe Brady/Mike McCarthy/Kliff Kingsbury

Surprisingly, the Saints are in a strong position. The team has several quality candidates, all with ties to the organization. While New Orleans may not be the most coveted job, it’s an appealing opportunity for those familiar with the area and comfortable with the team’s close-knit atmosphere. If the coaching pool falls as expected, they could land a coach who can bring stability and success to the franchise.