By Moses Joshua 
David Shaw’s arrival signals a new chapter for Detroit’s passing game as the team reshapes its coaching staff for the future.
The Detroit Lions are shaking up their coaching staff, with a significant hire set to make waves in the offensive game. According to reports, David Shaw, the former head coach of Stanford, has agreed to become the new passing game coordinator for the Lions. His arrival marks a critical shift in Detroit’s offensive strategy and could signal the end of Tanner Engstrand’s tenure in the same role.
A Wealth of Experience on the Sidelines
David Shaw’s coaching pedigree is undeniable, with a rich history in both college and professional football. After leading Stanford for 12 seasons, Shaw amassed an impressive 96-54 record, guiding the team to five bowl victories, including three appearances at the prestigious Rose Bowl. Shaw’s tenure at Stanford was marked by consistency, as his teams won no fewer than eight games in each of his first eight seasons.
However, Shaw’s last four seasons in charge at Stanford were less successful, with the team going 14-28 from 2019 to 2022. Despite the decline, Shaw’s vast experience as a head coach, combined with his previous NFL stints coaching quarterbacks and wide receivers with the Baltimore Ravens and Oakland Raiders, makes him a valuable addition to the Lions’ coaching staff.
Shaw’s time in the NFL, where he worked with top-tier quarterbacks and wide receivers, has equipped him with the skills necessary to elevate Detroit’s passing game. His transition from college head coach to personnel executive with the Denver Broncos allowed him to work closely with new Lions offensive coordinator John Morton, further strengthening his connection with Detroit’s leadership.
Shaw’s Arrival and What It Means for Detroit’s Future
The hiring of Shaw is not only a significant coaching move but also likely signals the exit of Tanner Engstrand, who has served as Detroit’s passing game coordinator for the past two seasons. Engstrand’s name has been linked to the New York Jets’ staff under defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, making Shaw’s arrival a natural transition.
The Lions’ offense is undergoing a significant transformation, with Morton now overseeing the offensive strategy. Shaw’s expertise will complement Morton’s offensive philosophy, as Detroit aims to continue its offensive growth. Shaw’s experience as a former head coach and his familiarity with working alongside Dan Campbell’s mentor, Sean Payton, ensures that he brings a wealth of knowledge to a team in the midst of an offensive retooling.
A Multi-Year Deal and Further Staff Adjustments
Shaw has reportedly agreed to a multi-year deal with the Lions, and his appointment further strengthens a coaching staff that includes Mark Brunell as quarterbacks coach and Hank Fraley as offensive line/run game coordinator. Scottie Montgomery has also been brought on board as the assistant head coach and running backs coach.
While Shaw’s arrival is an exciting development for Detroit, it also signals more changes are on the horizon. The Lions recently lost assistant quarterbacks coach J.T. Barrett and receivers coach Antwaan Randle El to the Chicago Bears, and Shaw’s hiring could be a harbinger of more shifts within the coaching staff.
David Shaw’s return to coaching, albeit in a new role as passing game coordinator, presents an exciting opportunity for the Lions. With his deep knowledge of both the college and NFL game, Shaw will look to elevate Detroit’s passing offense and work alongside Morton to build a more dynamic, efficient offense. As Shaw steps into this new role, all eyes will be on Detroit’s offensive growth and the changes that lie ahead.