Eminem campaigns for OC Ben Johnson to stay with Lions

The offseason campaign for the Detroit Lions to keep offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is off to a roaring start.

Following Detroit’s 42-17 win over the Denver Broncos at Ford Field on Saturday night, Detroit’s own, rap artist Eminem, made one of the first pleas to make sure Johnson doesn’t leave town.

“Back on track,” Eminem posted on Twitter, “that’s what I’m talking (a)bout!!!! @Lions. Ben Johnson, please don(‘)t leave us!!!”

Johnson figures to be one of the league’s hottest head-coaching candidates for the second offseason in a row. Last offseason, after his first year as Lions offensive coordinator, Johnson was rumored to be a front-runner for the Carolina Panthers’ head-coaching vacancy. He withdrew from consideration during the process.

The job in Carolina ultimately went to former Indianapolis Colts head coach Frank Reich, who was fired after just 11 games.

While we know the Panthers’ job will be open again this offseason, there will be a number of attractive jobs available for an offensive-minded coach. The Los Angeles Chargers, who on Friday fired head coach Brandon Staley, are a popular pairing for Johnson amongst pundits because of the team’s dynamic quarterback, Justin Herbert.

Johnson has led the Lions to consecutive top-five offenses. Entering Saturday’s win, in which the Lions ran up 448 yards of offense, the team ranked third (390.3) in yards per game.

nbianchi@detroitnews.com

@nolanbianchi