By Mummy Grace 
The Detroit Lions may be in the mix for one of the NFL’s most intriguing coaching figures this offseason — former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel. But before Detroit gets too excited, there’s a major twist: McDaniel isn’t just interviewing for Detroit’s offensive coordinator (OC) job — he’s also talking with several teams about head coaching positions.
📌 Detroit’s OC Opening and McDaniel’s Situation
The Lions opened up their offensive coordinator position after parting ways with John Morton following the 2025 season. Detroit has been actively pursuing candidates who can bring fresh offensive energy and help quarterback Jared Goff and the Lions’ offense take the next leap.
According to reports, Detroit has reached out to McDaniel about that OC vacancy and he’s scheduled to interview for the role.
McDaniel’s offensive smarts aren’t in question — during his time as Miami’s head coach, he was widely respected for innovative schemes and a creative approach, even if his overall record didn’t meet Dolphins’ expectations.
However, while Detroit appears interested, several other teams are pursuing McDaniel for head coaching jobs — opportunities that most coaches would view as promotions over an offensive coordinator role.
🔥 Multiple Head Coach Interviews on the Horizon
According to NFL Network reports, McDaniel is lined up to interview with several franchises for head coaching vacancies this offseason — a strong sign that his stock remains high despite being let go by Miami. Teams reportedly showing interest include:
Cleveland Browns
Atlanta Falcons
Tennessee Titans
Baltimore Ravens
…among others looking to bring in a fresh voice at head coach.
That means Detroit’s bid to land him as an OC could be undermined if he chooses to pursue a head coaching position instead — especially since such openings offer more authority, longer contracts, and a higher profile role than a coordinator job.
🧠 Why This Matters for the Lions
From Detroit’s perspective, snagging McDaniel would be a big offensive coup, especially after a year in which the Lions’ offense experienced inconsistencies and coaching turnover. McDaniel’s background includes memorable offensive play designs and a reputation for helping quarterbacks and skill players excel in dynamic systems — qualities Detroit clearly values.
But the competition he’s facing complicates matters. While the OC role might be attractive, most coaches in McDaniel’s position prefer another shot at being a head coach. And with teams like the Browns, Titans, Falcons, and Ravens all reportedly interested in meeting with him for their HC vacancies, Detroit may ultimately be competing with far more attractive opportunities.
For Lions fans, that means patience — and flexibility — might be necessary. Detroit might host conversations with McDaniel, but a head coaching job could override any OC interest he has, especially if multiple franchises begin offering that role in earnest.