Exclusive: Boomer Esiason Says Commanders Next Head Coach Is a ‘Lock’
The Washington Chiefs are still interviewing candidates to replace Ron Rivera, but have no expectations for former NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason. He knows Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson will likely be the Commanders’ next head coach. Esiason, who played for the Cincinnati Bengals, New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals, made the bold claim during an appearance on WFAN’s “The Morning Show with Boomer & Gio.”
Discussing Johnson’s qualifications, Esiason said, “He’s going to be the Commanders’ head coach. I’ve been saying that all along.” asked host Gregg Giannetti, “Are you saying this is a lock? he asked. Commanders head coach?
Without hesitation, Esiason said yes each time, ultimately confirming that this was Johnson’s permanent position in Washington. It is not the first time Johnson’s name has been linked to a commander. He has long been considered a priority for new general manager Adam Peters. The CEO is even willing to talk to the top candidate again.
Commanders Want Further Talks With Ben Johnson
Johnson could have faced the Commanders, but the Lions’ NFC Championship Game appearance complicated things. Detroit will take on the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium on Sunday, January 21st, so there should be more postgame talk.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, commanders are lining up to talk to Johnson again when the time comes.
All signs point to the Commanders hiring Johnson, but Peters’ preferences may conflict with what Josh Harris wants. Owner Harris admires the team-building model employed by the Baltimore Ravens, which may have led the Chiefs to hire defensive coordinator Mike McDonald.
The decision will depend on the Chiefs’ quarterback plans for the 2024 NFL Draft. Johnson has built a reputation for doing incredible things at the most important position in football.
Boomer Esiason’s Confidence in Ben Johnson Makes Sense
There are a number of reasons why the commanders would recommend hiring Johnson. The best part is how he changed Jared Goff.
Johnson’s guidance has moved Goff away from being a signal caller, and the Los Angeles Rams no longer want the passer to have back-to-back 4,000-yard seasons. Goff has improved in almost every area, especially when it comes to handling pressure.
He proved the latter by destroying the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and their offensive scheme in the divisional round. According to Next Gen Stats, Goff had a quick game, “taking an average of 2.51 seconds to throw and being pressured just five times (20.8%) on offense.”
Johnson uses movement, transition, love routes and play action to add quick layups. NFL Network’s Brian Baldinger writes that these items were used wisely.
The Commanders will need the same QB-friendly plan if they use their second overall pick to draft a new passer. That makes Johnson a strong candidate, but at least a defensive coordinator is firmly in the mix.
Ben Johnson may be the “favorite” player, but the Super Bowl winner is still in the Radar
NBC4 Sports’ JP Finlay: Johnson “is still the favorite to get the job among Las Vegas punters and everyone I’ve talked to.” Finlay also noted that Rams DC Raheem Morris “is scheduled to attend a one-on-one interview this week.” “An important candidate, a dynamic person.”
Morris helped the Rams finish the 2021 season by winning the Super Bowl. Like Johnson, the 47-year-old has already met virtually with his commanders.
That Morris deserves a second interview shows the strength of his candidacy. It also highlights Peters, Harris and the deep outfield the Commanders should be picking from this offseason.
A field apparently still led by Johnson.
