After parting ways with offensive coordinator John Morton, the Detroit Lions are entering one of the most important coaching searches of the 2026 offseason. Offense was one of Detroit’s biggest weaknesses in 2025, prompting head coach Dan Campbell to take over play-calling midseason.
Now, with a clear need for creativity, structure, and long-term vision, the Lions have an opportunity to reshape their offense by targeting proven or ascending out-of-house offensive coordinator candidates. Below are five names Detroit should seriously consider.
- Kevin Stefanski — Proven NFL Offensive Architect
Kevin Stefanski quickly emerges as one of the most accomplished offensive minds available. The former Cleveland Browns head coach and two-time AP NFL Coach of the Year was dismissed after a 5–12 season in 2025, ending a six-year run in Cleveland.
Before becoming a head coach, Stefanski built his reputation as the Minnesota Vikings offensive coordinator, designing a balanced, run-first, play-action-heavy offense. With Cleveland, he led the Browns to multiple playoff appearances and two 11-win seasons.
Why Stefanski fits the Lions:
NFL-proven offensive system with playoff success
Strong run-game and quarterback optimization experience
Veteran presence without head-coaching responsibilities
Hiring Stefanski would signal Detroit’s intent to immediately elevate its offense.
- Brian Daboll — Veteran Play-Caller With Dan Campbell Ties
Although Brian Daboll was fired as New York Giants head coach in 2025, his offensive résumé remains elite. Daboll won a Super Bowl with the Patriots and later helped transform the Buffalo Bills into one of the league’s most dangerous offenses.
Known for adaptability and aggressive passing concepts, Daboll has consistently maximized offensive talent across multiple rosters.
Why Daboll fits the Lions:
Extensive experience designing NFL passing attacks
History with physical, balanced offensive systems
Long-standing relationship with Dan Campbell
Daboll would bring instant credibility and innovation to Detroit’s offense.
- J.T. Barrett — Familiar Coach With Lions Roots
J.T. Barrett is a rising offensive coach who already understands Detroit’s culture. He spent three seasons on the Lions’ coaching staff before following former OC Ben Johnson to the Chicago Bears.
A former college quarterback, Barrett is regarded as a sharp, quarterback-friendly coach with a strong grasp of modern offensive concepts.
Why Barrett fits the Lions:
Familiarity with Detroit’s roster and organizational identity
Continuity paired with fresh ideas
Direct experience developing young quarterbacks
Barrett offers a high-upside option who could grow alongside the team.
- Todd Monken — Elite Offensive Mind (If Available)
Todd Monken is currently the Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator, but his future could be uncertain following the firing of long-time head coach John Harbaugh. If Monken becomes available, he would instantly rank among the top offensive coordinator candidates in the league.
Monken has earned a reputation as one of the NFL’s most creative and aggressive play-callers.
Why Monken fits the Lions:
Explosive passing-game designs
Proven ability to sustain high-scoring offenses
Energy and adaptability aligned with Campbell’s philosophy
If available, Monken could be Detroit’s top target.
- Ronald Curry — Rising Bills Assistant With Campbell History
Ronald Curry, currently the Buffalo Bills quarterbacks coach, is one of the fastest-rising offensive coaches in the NFL. His résumé includes work as a wide receivers coach and passing game coordinator.
Notably, Curry spent four seasons on Dan Campbell’s staff in New Orleans, giving him familiarity with Campbell’s leadership style.
Why Curry fits the Lions:
Strong quarterback development background
Shared offensive philosophy with Campbell
Young, ascending coach with league-wide respect
Curry represents a forward-thinking hire with long-term upside.
Final Thoughts: Lions’ OC Search Could Define 2026
The Detroit Lions offensive coordinator search may be the most critical decision of their 2026 offseason. With high-profile coaching changes across the NFL — including Kevin Stefanski’s exit in Cleveland and John Harbaugh’s firing in Baltimore — Detroit has access to an unusually strong candidate pool.
Whether the Lions choose a proven veteran like Stefanski or Daboll, or an ascending coach like Barrett or Curry, the next hire will play a major role in shaping the future of Detroit’s offense — and potentially their Super Bowl aspirations.
