Detroit Lions Face Potential Setbacks as Playoffs Begin
Updated: January 15, 2025, 10:50 AM
The Detroit Lions, entering the playoffs as the NFC’s top seed, are in a strong position, but they may face some challenges in retaining key staff moving forward. Coming off a bye week, they are set to play the Washington Commanders in the Divisional Round on Saturday, January 18. While the Lions are enjoying significant success this season, including securing home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, some experts are already speculating about the team’s future beyond this year.
The success of the Lions hinges on maintaining talented players, a capable coaching staff, and strong leadership, especially under general manager Brad Holmes. However, the future may bring some changes. While this doesn’t necessarily signal a decline, it’s an issue worth watching closely.
Lions’ Coordinators Could Be Headed for Head Coaching Roles
As NFL teams begin their head coaching searches, it’s becoming increasingly likely that the Lions could lose both of their top coordinators. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn have both become prime candidates for head coaching positions, with both having already conducted interviews with other teams.
NFL analyst Adam Schefter, typically a guest on “The Pat McAfee Show,” made a special appearance on January 14 to discuss the head coach hiring process. During the segment, Schefter touched on the possibility of the Lions losing both of their coordinators, stating, “I’d be really surprised if both of them didn’t come out of this with head coaching jobs.”
Schefter emphasized that Glenn, in particular, is very likely to land a head coaching position this hiring cycle, further fueling speculation that the Lions may face departures in their coaching ranks.
Dan Campbell Reflects on Coordinators’ Job Search
As the Lions focus on their playoff run, speculation about their coordinators’ futures remains prevalent. During a press conference on January 13, Lions head coach Dan Campbell was asked if he had discussed the head coaching opportunities with either Johnson or Glenn. Campbell responded lightheartedly, saying, “Why would I want to know that? You think I want them to leave?”
Campbell acknowledged he had an idea of how things were progressing but hadn’t directly inquired about whether they were leaving. He added, “At some point today, I’ll talk to them about what transpired,” maintaining a calm approach to the situation.
