Tom Brady betrayed interest level in Ben Johnson on live television, former Buccaneers QB claims

Tom Brady and Ben Johnson shared the NFL's spotlight for a brief time. The Buccaneers quarterback played just one season when Johnson worked as an offensive coordinator under Dan Campbell. However, Brady's life is completely different three years later.

While Johnson would have given orders to Brady had the two worked together in 2022, Brady would essentially outrank Johnson if they joined forces with the Raiders in 2025. Brady would love that outcome, according to NFL analyst Chris Simms. On Thursday's edition of "Pro Football Talk," Simms claimed the vibe given off by Brady's commentary betrayed his level of interest in Johnson.

"I thought when Brady (commentated one of the) Detroit games, you could tell Brady was thoroughly impressed by the offense," Simms said. "There were things he said during the game about the scheme and how he ties plays together and how he uses four legs.

"So I could see that and read between the lines or the tea leaves as some really brilliant people say that Brady was impressed and it wasn't just BS."

Brady has been working as a color commentator for FOX this season. He is also a minority owner of the Raiders. Depending on where Johnson lands, Brady could have called the game of one of his new employees.

Exploring Tom Brady's top competitors for Ben Johnson

Tom Brady at NFC Wild Card Playoffs: Green Bay Packers v Philadelphia Eagles - Source: Getty

Tom Brady's Raiders have reached out to interview Ben Johnson, indicating their level of interest in the Lions offensive coordinator. However, they are not the only ones interested in him.

The Chicago Bears and Jacksonville Jaguars are also reportedly eyeing Johnson and have interviewed him.

With the job still open, both teams have the chance to nab him before Brady's Las Vegas Raiders, although the Bears and Jaguars have a long list of other candidates they may likely prefer more.

While that might be good news for Brady, there are other openings from teams that could end up reaching out to Johnson at any time. The Saints, Jets and Titans haven't reached out, but could at any moment. Maxx Crosby may not know if Johnson is his coach or not for a few days or weeks.

At this stage, anything could happen as Brady walks into perhaps his first taste of true NFL competition since retiring from the league.