NFL hiring cycle officially kicked off, Ben Johnson was hyped as one of the best upcoming head coaching candidates. This has been a common theme for multiple offseasons now, with the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator frequently coming up with some of the best play calls in the NFL.

Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson could have left Detroit after last season’s success but chose to stay to build on what’s been an impressive campaign under Dan Campbell. This season, he’s once again at the top of the list for several NFL teams looking for a fresh start.

Ben Johnson has a local tie and a connection with the Patriots' most important player. Read more on Boston.com.