The Detroit Lions are officially on the hunt for a new offensive coordinator after former OC Ben Johnson left to become the head coach of their division rival, the Chicago Bears, on Monday. Although Johnson’s departure stings, the Lions and their fans had anticipated this scenario after the 2024 season.
In light of this, head coach Dan Campbell stated that quarterback Jared Goff would have input in selecting the next offensive coordinator during a media session on Monday. However, little information has surfaced regarding interview requests for potential candidates, leading fans and media to speculate that the Lions may promote someone from within the organization.
On Friday, Colton Pouncy of The Athletic published an article exploring possible coordinator candidates for both sides of the ball. Among those suggested for the offensive coordinator role was former Lions quarterback David Blough.
Could David Blough Be the Next Lions Offensive Coordinator?
Blough entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2019, signing with the Cleveland Browns. His time with Cleveland was short-lived, as the Lions traded for him on November 27, 2019, after injuries to Matthew Stafford and backup Jeff Driskel. Blough started five games for the Lions that season, going 0-5.
During his five appearances, Blough threw for 984 yards, four touchdowns, and six interceptions. While Blough was in a challenging position, his performance fell short. Nonetheless, Detroit kept him until the end of the 2021 season.
After leaving Detroit, Blough spent time on a few practice squads before returning to the Lions in 2023. This means Blough spent his final season in the NFL with Johnson and Goff, providing him with a solid understanding of Johnson’s offensive system and a connection with Goff. This could make Blough an ideal candidate if the Lions seek someone outside their organization.
However, Blough is currently the assistant quarterbacks coach in Washington, where he works with Jayden Daniels. Daniels, who not only defeated the Lions in the playoffs but also outperformed Goff, might make it difficult for the Lions to persuade Blough to leave Washington for Detroit.
Still, if the Lions can secure Blough, their offense would have the potential to remain potent.
More news….
Reports: Patriots hire Terrell Williams from Lions as defensive coordinator
Williams served as the Lions’ defensive line coach during the 2024 season.
Detroit Lions defensive line coach Terrell Williams is reportedly set to take on the role of defensive coordinator for the New England Patriots.
Williams previously worked under Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, spending six years on Vrabel’s staff with the Tennessee Titans from 2018 to 2023 before joining the Lions. He then served as the defensive line coach for the Detroit Lions during the 2024 season.
The Lions are facing significant staffing changes for next season, as the team is also set to lose both of its coordinators. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has been hired as the new head coach of the Chicago Bears, while defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn will become the head coach of the New York Jets, according to reports.
On Monday, Lions head coach Dan Campbell shared his expectation that the team would lose both coordinators to head coaching positions.
