Ben Johnson was considered a top head coaching candidate following the Lions' success this season. 

But after numerous hirings, only two teams haven't decided yet: the Washington Commanders and Seattle Seahawks. 

And on Tuesday, he finally made his decision. 

NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reports that Johnson, who is the offensive coordinator for the Lions, informed the Commanders and Seahawks that he is going to stay in Detroit. 

The Lions made it all the way to the NFC Championship this year, but fell short, ultimately losing to the San Francisco 49ers. But Johnson wants another chance at getting that championship. 

ESPN's Adam Schefter added some additional information, saying that "Ben Johnson was not the head-coaching lock that people thought and his asking price spooked some teams, per sources." 

Commanders Forced to Look Elsewhere 

Johnson's decision means the Commanders will need to go back to the drawing board and take a look at their remaining five head coach candidates: Aaron Glenn, Mike MacDonald, Anthony Weaver, Dan Quinn and Bobby Slowik.

Ben Johnson staying in DET is a completely disastrous development for the Commanders.

Their remaining 5 candidates are Mike MacDonald, Anthony Weaver, Aaron Glenn, Dan Quinn and Bobby Slowik.

** Only one offensive HC candidate in an era when you should be hiring offensive **

— Grant Paulsen (@granthpaulsen) January 30, 2024

With Washington in play for drafting an NFL quarterback in this year's 2024 NFL Draft, Slowik, the Houston Texans offensive coordinator known for his exceptional work with quarterbacks, makes the most sense.  

Slowik also got his start in Washington in 2011 as a defensive assistant. 

But now one has to wonder, if the Commanders do decide to bring him "home,"
whether or not he'll be ready to part ways with C.J. Stroud and the Texans.  

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Commanders’ head coach search should be leaning toward obvious direction

Can’t get it wrong.