In a fresh development for the Detroit Lions, the team has brought on former NFL quarterback Bruce Gradkowski for his first-ever coaching role in the league. While the specifics of his position remain unclear, it’s reasonable to speculate that he could take on a role as the assistant quarterbacks coach.
Though this will be Gradkowski’s debut in the NFL coaching world, it’s not his first venture into coaching. In recent years, he served as the offensive coordinator for the St. Louis Battlehawks in both the UFL and XFL. During this time, he worked closely with former Alabama quarterback AJ McCarron.
McCarron, who spent nine years in the NFL—primarily with the Cincinnati Bengals—had a standout performance under Gradkowski’s guidance, especially over the past two years. While the competition level in the spring leagues may not be as fierce as the NFL, McCarron has arguably become one of the top quarterbacks in spring football during that stretch.
Given his success and the rapport with Gradkowski, the Lions might want to consider bringing McCarron into their fold as a backup quarterback. Not just a player, McCarron could also serve in a player/coach role, offering insights and experience that many quarterbacks lack.
Despite not earning All-Pro honors, McCarron’s ability to mentor and understand the game has kept him relevant in the NFL. He has expressed interest in coaching, though he’s still eager to play following his release from the Battlehawks in November. The Lions could offer the perfect opportunity, allowing McCarron to fulfill both aspirations.
It’s important to note that the role envisioned here isn’t necessarily for McCarron to be part of the 53-man roster. Instead, it would resemble the situation with David Blough, who spent his last season as a player on the Lions’ practice squad, aiding rookie Hendon Hooker, before transitioning to a coaching position with the Washington Commanders.
This player/coach arrangement would help McCarron transition into a future coaching career while potentially giving him one more shot at an NFL roster spot. It also positions the Lions to add him to their coaching staff later on, especially considering that teams may soon express interest in Mark Brunell.
Having someone in that player/coach capacity would be a valuable asset to the Lions, serving almost like a third quarterbacks coach. As the saying goes, you can never overinvest in the quarterback position.
