The Detroit Lions have filled one of their coordinator vacancies by promoting Kelvin Sheppard to defensive coordinator. However, the team still needs to find a replacement for former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who left to become the head coach of the Chicago Bears.
One popular candidate for the offensive coordinator position is current Lions passing game coordinator Tanner Engstrand. The team has also reportedly interviewed veteran coach John Morton.
On the latest episode of the “Lone Wolves” podcast, co-host Christian Booher discussed the potential risks and benefits of hiring two first-time coordinators. Booher noted that head coach Dan Campbell is an offensive-minded coach who may want to bring in someone who shares his philosophical approach.
“The more I think about this, the more I think an external hire could be coming,” Booher said. “Dan Campbell is an offensive mind, and we heard him talk in his last press conference about how he wanted to be super involved with the hire, he wanted to get someone who aligns philosophically with him.”
Booher also pointed out that hiring an internal candidate like Engstrand could result in more of the same offense that the Lions have been running. He suggested that bringing in an external candidate could provide a fresh perspective and help fill in the gaps in Campbell’s offense.
The podcast also discussed the promotion of Kelvin Sheppard to defensive coordinator and the hiring of defensive line coach Kacy Rodgers. Additionally, the hosts analyzed Brad Holmes’ comments at his end-of-season press conference and evaluated potential offensive coordinator candidates.
Ultimately, the decision to hire two first-time coordinators will depend on the Lions’ front office and coaching staff. However, it is clear that the team is taking a careful and deliberate approach to finding the right candidates for the job.
