5 candidates to replace Bill Belichick and give Patriots a fresh start

4. Brian Johnson, Offensive Coordinator, Philadelphia Eagles

Now, we'll stick with offense. Brian Johnson is going to get his shot sooner or later, and he can thank himself for the work he's done with quarterback Jalen Hurts over the past couple of seasons. Johnson was Hurts' quarterbacks coach before taking on the offensive coordinator role this season.

The former Utah quarterback played backup to Alex Smith, for those who might not know. The 36-year-old is a young, offensive mind who understands the quarterback position. Those are ideal characteristics in an NFL head coach, these days. As each day passes, this league is getting far more passing-centric and head coaching vacancies are being filled more often by offensive minds who have a proven track record developing quarterbacks.

If that's the type the Patriots want, then Johnson is the perfect fit. The only question is, who will be under center for Johnson in 2024?