Deny Interview Request from for Assistant Coach
Detroit is making it clear that it intends to keep offensive assistant in place. As franchises across the league continue shaping their coaching staffs for the 2026 season, interest in Lions assistants remains strong. According to , the Dolphins—now led by head coach —sought permission to speak with Gradkowski about their open quarterbacks coach position. Detroit, however, declined to allow the interview.
League policy permits teams to block interview requests if the opportunity does not qualify as a promotion. While a move from offensive assistant to quarterbacks coach might appear to be an upward step, the NFL classifies both roles within the same assistant/position coach tier. Promotions are formally recognized only when moving up to coordinator or head coach. Since this situation would have been considered a lateral shift, the Lions were within their rights to prevent it.
Head coach has previously emphasized that he supports staff members pursuing career growth, which makes this decision somewhat uncommon. Still, the organization’s choice suggests it values Gradkowski highly and believes he plays an important role in its long-term plans.
A former NFL quarterback with roughly ten years of playing experience, Gradkowski joined Detroit’s staff last season for his first coaching opportunity at the professional level. Before that, he gained experience in high school programs, at the collegiate level with , and in spring football with the . Over the years, he has handled a variety of responsibilities, including head coach, offensive coordinator, assistant quarterbacks coach, and offensive assistant.
Interestingly, despite his background at quarterback, Gradkowski spent last season working closely with the team’s wide receivers, assisting Scottie Montgomery as he continues to expand his coaching résumé. With Detroit expected to unveil its full 2026 coaching lineup soon, it remains to be seen whether Gradkowski will take on greater responsibility or continue contributing behind the scenes to the Lions’ offensive unit.
