Detroit continues bolstering its staff with a seasoned collegiate coach

Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell is making another move to strengthen his coaching staff, bringing in a fresh face from the college ranks.

The Lions are set to hire Tyler Roehl, Iowa State’s assistant head coach and running backs coach, as an offensive assistant, according to a report from CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz.

A Coaching Journey Through the Collegiate Ranks

Roehl brings 15 years of coaching experience, having spent the 2024 season on Matt Campbell’s staff at Iowa State. Before that, he dedicated nearly a decade to his alma mater, North Dakota State, serving as the running backs and tight ends coach.

His role expanded in 2019 when he took over as the offensive coordinator, a position he held until leaving after the 2023 season.

A Detour Before Landing at Iowa State

Before joining Iowa State last year, Roehl originally accepted a role as Tennessee State’s associate head coach but changed course, opting instead to join the Cyclones.

His coaching career started in 2010 as a running backs coach at Concordia (Minn.), followed by a return to North Dakota State as a graduate assistant in 2011. He also spent time as an assistant coach at Moorhead High School in Minnesota before making his mark in the collegiate game.

Bringing a Winning Pedigree to Detroit

Roehl’s addition continues the Lions’ trend of hiring former NFL players. A former running back, he spent a season in the NFL with the Seattle Seahawks before transitioning to coaching.

Beyond his playing experience, Roehl is known as a proven winner, having helped North Dakota State secure seven FCS national championships during his time on staff. His expertise in the run game and championship pedigree align well with Detroit’s “grit” culture and the offensive philosophy led by Campbell and running backs coach Scottie Montgomery.

With this latest move, the Lions are continuing to build a coaching staff that blends NFL experience and collegiate innovation, setting the stage for another competitive season.