NFL Exec Suggests Commanders Hire Lions OC, UNC Grad Johnson as HC, Draft Drake Maye

An anonymous NFL executive believes that the Washington Commanders should hire Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as the team's new head coach and draft North Carolina standout quarterback Drake Maye, according to Mike Sando of The Athletic.

"One exec suggested Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who played at North Carolina and could draft a quarterback from there with the second pick if he liked Drake Maye."

Maye wrapped up another tremendous season for the Tar Heels in 2023, showcasing several traits that should translate to the professional level such as his accuracy while completing passes on the run and his ability to make off-script plays. He currently ranks as the No. 3 prospect in the 2024 class on Bleacher Report's NFL draft big board.

Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported on Monday that the Commanders have already requested an interview with Johnson after another incredible season calling plays for the Lions. Detroit won the NFC North with a record of 12-5, owning the fifth-best scoring offense in the league.

Evidently, Washington has quickly begun its search for a new head coach once Ron Rivera was fired after Week 18. The Commanders' front office is also undergoing some changes after the team reportedly hired former Golden State Warriors executive Bob Myers to help run their franchise (per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport).

Whether it's with Maye or current signal-caller Sam Howell, Washington will hope that Johnson's expertise can help revitalize an offense that averaged just 19.4 points per game in 2023.