The Detroit Lions enter the playoffs as the NFC’s top seed, but they may face challenges as key players could be departing.
Coming off a bye week, the Detroit Lions are set to face the Washington Commanders on Saturday, January 18, in the Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs. While the Lions have had a successful season, securing the NFC’s top seed and home games throughout the playoffs, some NFL analysts are already discussing the future of the franchise beyond this year.
The Lions’ success has been driven by strong players, a dedicated coaching staff, and effective management led by general manager Brad Holmes. However, some of these crucial components may not be with the team next season. While this doesn’t necessarily signal a decline, it’s a situation worth monitoring.
NFL Analyst Predicts Detroit Lions Will Lose Both Coordinators
As head coaching searches intensify, it’s becoming clear that the Lions could lose both of their coordinators. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn are among the top candidates for head coaching positions, and both have already participated in interviews.
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter, who typically appears on “The Pat McAfee Show” on Mondays, made a special appearance on January 14 to discuss the head coaching searches that are heating up.
During his analysis of the New York Jets’ head coach search, Schefter mentioned Glenn as a strong candidate for the job. He then made a bold prediction that could leave Lions fans concerned.
“Aaron Glenn is gonna get a job in this cycle. Ben Johnson is gonna get a job in this cycle,” Schefter stated. “And I think it’s very likely that the Lions will lose both their coordinators this cycle.”
Schefter further emphasized, “It’d be a major upset if Glenn didn’t land a head coaching job.” Given Schefter’s track record, it’s possible he has insider information suggesting that the Jets could be targeting Glenn.
Lions HC Dan Campbell Comments on Coordinators’ Future
While the Detroit Lions focus on their Super Bowl aspirations, questions about the futures of Glenn and Johnson remain. On January 13, during a press conference, Lions head coach Dan Campbell was asked whether he had spoken to his coordinators about their head coaching prospects or received updates on their ongoing interviews.
“Well, why would I want to know that? You think I want them to leave?” Campbell replied, smiling. It’s a valid point, as both Glenn and Johnson have been key to the Lions’ 15-2 record, an impressive achievement.
Campbell continued, “I have an idea of how they’re doing. I haven’t gone in there and asked if they’re leaving yet. I’ll talk to them at some point today about what’s transpired.”
