Ben Johnson

NBC Sports’ ProFootballTalk reports that “alignment with the front office continues to be the biggest factor” in Lions OC Ben Johnson’s search for a head coaching role.

A source indicates Johnson is “still very early in the process of making a decision about next year.” The sought-after head coach candidate reportedly had people gathering information on his behalf while he focused on the Lions’ now-dashed Super Bowl dreams. The Raiders recently interviewed Commanders assistant general manager Lance Newmark, who is said to have a close relationship with Johnson, but per the source, Newmark’s interview “doesn’t mean a lot right now.” Johnson’s search is still in “phase one” but things could pick up quickly now that the Lions’ season is over. “Johnson can engage in face-to-face interviews as soon as” Monday.