Connect with us

Detroit Lions

Lions Coach on a Mission: Securing the Perfect Offensive Coordinator for Future Glory

Published

on

Less than 48 hours after the Detroit Lions’ season ended, Ben Johnson was named the new head coach of the Chicago Bears. While Johnson’s departure marks a significant shift, the NFL coaching carousel is in full swing, with Aaron Glenn interviewing with the Jets and other teams, such as New Orleans, Jacksonville, and Las Vegas, waiting in the wings.

Johnson and Glenn played pivotal roles in the Lions’ dramatic transformation from perennial underdogs to legitimate contenders. By midweek, it’s anticipated that Detroit will lose both coordinators. However, both have proven their worth, earning the prestige, compensation, and responsibility that come with NFL head coaching positions.

With the departure of these key figures, speculation abounds about who might replace them. Yet, rather than poaching talent from other teams, Lions General Manager Brad Holmes and Head Coach Dan Campbell are likely to seek replacements internally or through alternative channels.

Establishing a Winning Culture

Four years ago, Holmes and Campbell undertook the monumental task of rebuilding the Lions from the ground up. Transforming a franchise that had languished at the bottom of the NFL for decades required more than just new players—it demanded a complete cultural overhaul.

The duo set out to redefine the Lions’ identity, focusing on grit, determination, and an unyielding will to win. Every player brought on board had to embody these traits. Holmes and Campbell prioritized mental toughness, discipline, and an unrelenting drive for success. Similarly, every staff member aligned with these values, fostering a cohesive and resilient organization.

Lions’ Offensive Coordinator Options

The Lions don’t need to look far for their next offensive coordinator. Holmes and Campbell had anticipated the eventual departure of their top coordinators and implemented a succession plan to prepare for it. Two standout candidates within the organization are ready to step into the role:

Scottie Montgomery – Assistant Head Coach and Running Backs Coach

Scottie Montgomery, in his second year with Detroit, has been instrumental in shaping the NFL’s most dynamic running back duo: Jahmyr “Sonic” Gibbs and David “Knuckles” Montgomery. Under his guidance, both players achieved unprecedented milestones, becoming the first tandem in league history to record 1,000 scrimmage yards and 10 rushing touchdowns each in a single season.

A North Carolina native and Duke University graduate, Montgomery’s coaching career spans roles with Duke, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Indianapolis Colts. Lions Head Coach Dan Campbell has openly expressed confidence in Montgomery’s ability, suggesting he’s ready to take on the offensive coordinator role—and potentially, an NFL head coach position in the future.

Antwaan Randle El – Wide Receivers Coach

Antwaan Randle El joined the Lions in 2021, bringing experience from his tenure with Bruce Arians’ Super Bowl-winning Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Known for his work with standout receivers like Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, Randle El has continued his success in Detroit by developing Amon-Ra St. Brown into one of the league’s premier talents.

Randle El’s coaching resume also highlights his creativity and strategic acumen, honed during his playing days with the Pittsburgh Steelers. His innovative approach could help sustain the offensive ingenuity established under Johnson.

Preparing for the Future

The Lions may also face the loss of Offensive Line Coach Hank Fraley, who is interviewing with the Seattle Seahawks for their offensive coordinator position. Despite these potential changes, the Lions’ well-thought-out succession plan ensures they are prepared for any scenario. Holmes and Campbell remain committed to building on the foundation they’ve established, with every decision aimed at propelling the team to greater heights.

This season may bring changes, but the Lions are poised to emerge stronger and more resilient, ready to continue their ascent in the NFL.

Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Trending

Copyright © 2023. All Rights Reserved

>