When Ben Johnson Likely Will Have First Interview With Patriots

The New England Patriots began their search for the franchise’s next head coach immediately following the firing of Jerod Mayo on Sunday.

The Patriots reportedly requested an interview with Detroit Lions offensive coordinator, who is arguably the top candidate for several coaching vacancies, on Monday morning.

Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer reported Tuesday afternoon that the Lions have given Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn a window of Thursday through Saturday to schedule potential interviews. All initial interviews will have to be completed virtually, according to Breer.

The Patriots and Chicago Bears have already scheduled interviews with Johnson and another top candidate,…