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Exodus in Detroit: How the Lions’ Coaching Departures Could Impact the Team
Can the Lions Overcome the Loss of Key Coaches?
The Detroit Lions have had an eventful offseason—not just in player personnel but in their coaching staff as well. In a rare occurrence, the team has lost several key members of its coaching staff, including both offensive and defensive coordinators, making it one of the biggest coaching shifts in recent NFL history.
While coaching changes happen every year, the sheer volume of departures in Detroit is raising eyebrows. Should Lions fans be worried about the team’s ability to maintain its success moving forward?
A Coaching Staff in Flux
The Lions have lost seven coaches so far, with a possible eighth departure looming. Here’s a breakdown of who has left and where they’re headed:
- Ben Johnson (OC) → Chicago Bears (Head Coach)
- Aaron Glenn (DC) → New York Jets (Head Coach)
- Antwaan Randle El (WR Coach) → Chicago Bears (WR Coach/Asst. Head Coach)
- J.T. Barrett (Asst. QB Coach) → Chicago Bears (QB Coach)
- Steve Heiden (TE Coach) → New York Jets (OL Coach)
- Terrell Williams (DL Coach) → New England Patriots (DC)
- Tanner Engstrand (Passing Game Coordinator) → Expected to join the Jets as OC
This mass departure is significant, considering all these coaches played key roles in the Lions’ transformation into an NFC contender. However, history suggests that while coaching turnover can be disruptive, it is not always disastrous.
Should Lions Fans Be Worried?
Losing top coordinators and assistants can create uncertainty, but there are reasons for optimism. When looking at previous teams that lost both coordinators in the same offseason—such as the 1994 49ers, 2004 Patriots, and 2022 Eagles—each of them remained highly competitive the following season.
The Lions still have one of the most talented rosters in the league, and continuity on the field can often outweigh coaching turnover. Most of Detroit’s core players will remain intact, and the team has room to upgrade its roster rather than just maintain it.
Additionally, head coach Dan Campbell has proven to be a strong leader who can keep the team on course. He has successfully navigated challenges before, replacing talented assistants like Duce Staley and Todd Wash with equally capable coaches. His recent hires—John Morton as OC and Kacy Rodgers as DL Coach—show that he’s taking the necessary steps to rebuild the staff.
What’s Next for the Lions?
While the loss of familiar faces on the coaching staff could bring some growing pains, Detroit remains in a strong position. If Campbell can continue making smart hires and maintain the team’s culture, the Lions should still be a contender in the NFC.
The 2025 season will be a test of resilience, but history suggests that talent and leadership matter more than coaching turnover. As long as Campbell is at the helm, the Lions should be just fine.