For the second consecutive coaching carousel cycle, Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is the hottest name on the market. Every team with an opening has expressed very strong interest in hiring Johnson.
Yet even Johnson points to his Detroit defensive counterpart, Aaron Glenn, as a better candidate to become head coach. Glenn is also generating a lot of buzz from teams looking for a new head coach, including the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints.
“I think I told you last year, he’s more than qualified right now,” Johnson said before Wednesday’s practice at Allen Park. “You hear all of our players singing his praises right now, and that’s exactly what I would do. I would support that. He may be more prepared to be a head coach than anyone I’ve ever met. He wants it, and I think he would do a phenomenal job as manager.
Glenn has been instrumental in Detroit’s rise through the defensive ranks despite an injury-ravaged team that has a capable starting eleven on injured reserve. Beyond the defensive schemes, Glenn’s leadership style and ability to connect with players stands out from Johnson.
This personal style and authenticity is evident in Glenn when he observes him with his players. He is tough but fair, respectful but severe. It’s who he is and how Glenn himself perceives his coaching approach.
“The one thing I take away from all these interviews is that I’m going to be myself,” Glenn told reporters Wednesday. “You’ll either love it or you won’t.” If you don’t, it’s okay. I keep telling you: I have a great job here. And if you like it – if it’s an opportunity, I think it’s the best one for me and my family – then we’ll take a look.
Glenn and Johnson proceed in divergent ways, but each has very strong appeal to potential new teams.
This article was originally published on Lions Wire: Even Ben Johnson Admits Aaron Glenn Is ‘More Prepared to Be a Head Coach’ Than Anyone
