In a recent press conference, New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen shed light on the timeline and circumstances surrounding the Saints’ decision to hire Ben Johnson as their defensive coordinator. According to Allen, Johnson reached out to him months before the formal interview process began, sparking a conversation that would eventually lead to his appointment.
Allen explained that Johnson, the former offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, made his initial contact during the offseason, shortly after the conclusion of the 2024 season. “Ben called me, and we had a really good conversation about the potential of joining our staff,” Allen said. “It wasn’t something that I was actively seeking at the time, but after speaking with him, I could tell he had a strong vision and understanding of how he could contribute to our defense.”
The timing of Johnson’s outreach was particularly interesting, as the Saints were still in the midst of evaluating their coaching staff and considering potential candidates for the defensive coordinator role. Allen noted that Johnson’s approach was professional and well-timed, with the defensive-minded coach expressing a deep interest in helping the Saints build on their solid defensive foundation.
Johnson’s reputation as an offensive strategist, particularly in his role with the Lions, played a significant part in his appeal to Allen. Despite being known for his offensive acumen, Johnson’s insight into how to balance both sides of the ball, as well as his experience in working closely with defensive units, made him an attractive candidate. “Ben’s ability to understand the intricacies of both the offensive and defensive sides of the game made him stand out,” Allen continued. “It wasn’t just about what he did offensively in Detroit; it was about his football IQ and his ability to see the big picture.”
After several discussions, Allen and Johnson eventually formalized the process, leading to an official interview. Johnson’s strong football knowledge, leadership qualities, and innovative thinking helped him stand out as the right fit to take on the defensive coordinator position for the Saints.
While Ben Johnson’s transition from offensive coordinator to defensive coordinator is uncommon, the Saints’ decision to bring him on board highlights their commitment to staying ahead of the curve. With Johnson now in charge of the defense, the team is hopeful that his unique perspective will help them build a more balanced and dominant squad for the upcoming season.
Leave a Reply