In the race to secure their next head coach, the Washington Commanders have taken a significant step forward. Reports indicate that the Commanders are playing a waiting game, eager to speak with coaches involved in the championship weekend before making an official announcement. It is widely expected that Ben Johnson is the primary target for Josh Harris and Adam Peters, the decision-makers in Washington.

Johnson, who has been one of the most sought-after names in this year's coaching cycle, received numerous interview requests, including from the Commanders. However, the potential roadblock in Washington's pursuit of the Detroit Lions offensive coordinator seems to have taken a different direction.

Multiple reports suggest that the Carolina Panthers are set to appoint Dave Canales as their head coach, leaving the Commanders with less competition for Johnson's services. Many anticipated that Panthers' owner David Tepper, known for his unlimited financial wealth, would try to entice Johnson with a significant offer. However, even Tepper's resources weren't enough to attract the progressive play-caller, who seems uninterested in working with such erratic management.

The fact that Johnson accepted second interviews with both the Commanders and the Atlanta Falcons speaks volumes about the situation in Carolina. Tepper's reputation in the coaching cycle preceded him, leading to the Panthers choosing Canales for the position and promoting Dan Morgan internally as their general manager, despite his involvement in their underwhelming roster building over the past three years.

This is a problem that the Commanders have faced in the past, but fortunately, it seems to be a thing of the past. Under new ownership, led by Dan Snyder, and with the acquisition of highly coveted general manager candidate Adam Peters, the Commanders are positioning themselves as an appealing destination for coaching talent. If they can secure Johnson as their head coach, it will undoubtedly turn heads across the league, including among potential free agent signings who may view the team in a new light.

Even without considering the struggles in Carolina, the Washington Commanders present themselves as a more enticing destination compared to the Panthers. The Commanders have taken a thorough approach by conducting second interviews with other candidates, but their pursuit of Johnson seems like an open goal in no uncertain terms.

Furthermore, the Atlanta Falcons, another potential destination for Johnson, appear to be going in a different direction. Reports suggest that they are close to finalizing a deal with Raheem Morris as their next head coach, eliminating them from the equation.

Next week, the Commanders have scheduled meetings with Aaron Glenn, Anthony Weaver, and Dan Quinn as part of forming contingency plans. However, it's clear that Johnson is currently the top contender for the head coaching position.

Tepper, known for his determination to get his way, has seemingly conceded defeat in his pursuit of Johnson. This all but confirms that Johnson's representatives have indicated a lack of mutual interest. While it may come down to a two-horse race, the Falcons are also actively searching for the right candidate to lead their team.

As we approach the endgame in this coaching carousel, an official announcement regarding the Commanders' head coaching position could be made early next week. The timing would align well with the Senior Bowl and other pre-draft assessment events on the horizon. Peters has emphasized the importance of an aligned vision between the front office and coaching staff, making an expeditious hire crucial.

Considering the current state of affairs around the NFL, it appears that Ben Johnson's appointment as the next head coach of the Washington Commanders may not be far away.