With the Detroit Lions coming off a frustrating season that failed to meet expectations, the future of the offensive staff is officially under the microscope. Whether it’s preparing for potential departures or simply upgrading the scheme, Detroit may need to look outside the building for fresh ideas.
If the Lions decide change is necessary, here are five out-of-house offensive coordinator candidates who could bring a new spark to Detroit’s offense.
1. Brian Griese – San Francisco 49ers (QB Coach)
Griese has quietly built an impressive résumé developing quarterbacks in Kyle Shanahan’s system. He’s worked closely with Brock Purdy and helped maximize efficiency through timing, spacing, and smart decision-making — areas the Lions must improve in critical moments.
His familiarity with modern West Coast concepts would fit Jared Goff’s strengths and allow Detroit to stay aggressive without becoming predictable.
2. Joe Brady – Buffalo Bills (OC)
Brady helped stabilize Buffalo’s offense midseason and has prior experience as a play-caller at both the NFL and college level. His ability to adapt schemes around personnel is appealing for a Lions roster that still boasts elite skill talent.
Brady’s emphasis on quick reads and spacing could help Detroit regain consistency and reduce stalled drives.
3. Klint Kubiak – San Francisco 49ers (Passing Game Coordinator)
The Kubiak name carries weight, but Klint has earned his own credibility. He’s been deeply involved in one of the NFL’s most balanced and creative offenses.
Detroit’s run-pass balance, play-action usage, and misdirection could all benefit from Kubiak’s system, especially if the Lions want to lean more heavily into their ground game while keeping defenses guessing.
4. Pep Hamilton – Houston Texans (QB Coach)
Hamilton has worked with quarterbacks at nearly every level and played a key role in C.J. Stroud’s early development. His background emphasizes fundamentals, discipline, and situational football — areas where Detroit faltered late in games.
If the Lions want a coach who can elevate their QB room while tightening execution, Hamilton checks several boxes.
5. Greg Roman – Former Ravens OC
Roman’s offensive identity isn’t flashy, but it’s effective. His run-heavy approach, creative blocking schemes, and physical philosophy align closely with Dan Campbell’s mindset.
If Detroit wants to lean into toughness and control games at the line of scrimmage, Roman could help reshape the offense into a more punishing, clock-controlling unit.
🔍 Why Going Outside Matters
The Lions have talent. What they lacked last season was consistency, adaptability, and answers when defenses adjusted. An out-of-house hire brings fresh perspective, new tendencies, and the ability to challenge existing philosophies.
Dan Campbell has already hinted that no area of the team is immune from evaluation. If Detroit truly wants to take the next step, the offensive coordinator decision could be the most important move of the offseason.
5 Out-of-House Offensive Coordinator Candidates the Lions Must Seriously Consider
