The Detroit Lions face a critical moment as they begin their search for a new offensive coordinator to replace Ben Johnson, who has departed for the Chicago Bears’ head coaching position. Head coach Dan Campbell’s comments provide a clear framework for how the Lions will approach the hire, emphasizing continuity, quarterback Jared Goff’s comfort, and maintaining the team’s offensive identity.
Key Priorities in the Search
- Preserve Team Identity: Campbell wants a coordinator who aligns with the Lions’ aggressive, physical style of play that has fueled their success.
- Support for Jared Goff: Maintaining Goff’s comfort and continuing his high-level play is a central concern, making familiarity with the current offensive system and terminology a priority.
- Internal Candidates: Campbell hinted at strong internal options, suggesting he values continuity and familiarity within the staff.
- Open to External Talent: While internal promotions are on the table, Campbell is keeping the search broad to find the best fit for the team.
- Deliberate Decision-Making: Campbell emphasized that the process will not be rushed, ensuring the hire aligns with the Lions’ long-term goals.
Potential Candidates
Internal Options
- Tanner Engstrand (Passing Game Coordinator)
Engstrand has worked closely with Ben Johnson and the offense, giving him an intimate understanding of the system. Promoting him would maintain continuity, especially in the passing game. - Hank Fraley (Offensive Line Coach)
Fraley’s leadership of one of the NFL’s best offensive lines makes him a strong candidate. His promotion could solidify the Lions’ run-heavy identity while keeping the offensive scheme intact.
External Candidates
- Thomas Brown (Los Angeles Rams Assistant Head Coach/TEs Coach)
Brown has experience under Sean McVay and could bring fresh ideas while maintaining principles that suit Goff, given their shared Rams connection. - Joe Brady (Buffalo Bills QB Coach)
Brady’s innovative approach and success as LSU’s passing game coordinator in 2019 make him a compelling option. His ability to tailor offenses to quarterback strengths aligns well with Campbell’s priorities. - Brian Johnson (Philadelphia Eagles Offensive Coordinator)
If the Eagles make significant staff changes, Johnson could be a dynamic addition, bringing expertise in quarterback development and offensive versatility.
The Lions’ decision will shape the trajectory of an offense that has become one of the most productive in the NFL. With Dan Campbell at the helm, Lions fans can expect a thoughtful process aimed at sustaining and building upon the team’s success.
Five Internal Candidates for the Lions’ Offensive Coordinator Role
1. Scottie Montgomery (Assistant Head Coach/Running Backs Coach)
Montgomery is a logical candidate due to his extensive experience and familiarity with the Lions’ system. A finalist for the offensive coordinator role in 2022, Montgomery has been heavily involved in game planning, player development, and leadership responsibilities. His role as assistant head coach has prepared him to step into the coordinator position seamlessly, and Campbell has praised his intelligence, drive, and comfort with the team. Montgomery’s ability to maintain the Lions’ offensive identity while continuing to evolve their game plan makes him a strong contender.
2. Tanner Engstrand (Passing Game Coordinator)
Engstrand has quietly risen through the Lions’ ranks and is viewed as one of the organization’s brightest minds. His background includes experience as a passing game coordinator and time spent aiding play-calling duties after Anthony Lynn’s departure. Jared Goff has spoken highly of Engstrand’s contributions, citing his ability to bring creative ideas and provide critical support in offensive planning. With his focus on the “big picture” of the Lions’ offense, Engstrand could be the choice to ensure continuity and innovation in the team’s aerial attack.
3. Hank Fraley (Offensive Line Coach)
Fraley has been instrumental in building one of the NFL’s best offensive lines, the backbone of the Lions’ offensive success. His involvement in crafting weekly run game plans and his rapport with players like Frank Ragnow and Taylor Decker have cemented his reputation as a top-tier coach. While Fraley has primarily focused on the trenches, his holistic understanding of the offense and recent interview for the Seattle Seahawks’ offensive coordinator position suggest he’s ready to expand his responsibilities.
4. John Morton (Senior Offensive Assistant)
Morton brings decades of coaching experience, including time as an NFL offensive coordinator with the New York Jets in 2017. His role as a senior offensive assistant with the Lions has allowed him to contribute to game planning and player development without overseeing a specific position group. Morton’s wealth of knowledge and previous coordinator experience make him an intriguing internal candidate who could maintain stability while adding a seasoned perspective.
5. Mark Brunell (Quarterbacks Coach)
A former NFL quarterback with a deep understanding of the game, Brunell has worked closely with Jared Goff, playing a significant role in his recent resurgence. Brunell’s quarterback-centric perspective could provide valuable insight into tailoring the offense around Goff’s strengths. While he lacks play-calling experience, his leadership, player rapport, and ability to develop quarterbacks make him an under-the-radar option for the role.
Summary:
Each of these candidates brings a unique set of skills to the table, with Montgomery and Engstrand offering continuity, Fraley adding a focus on the trenches, Morton providing experience, and Brunell bringing a quarterback-focused approach. Dan Campbell’s decision will likely hinge on maintaining the Lions’ offensive identity while ensuring the system continues to support Jared Goff’s high-level play.
