The Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinato search concluded in unexpected fashion, as NFL Network insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported that the team is finalizing a deal to bring in former Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing.

Reaction among the fan base has been mixed. Many supporters were hoping Detroit would land a high-profile name such as ex–Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel. Petzing’s tenure in Arizona also doesn’t immediately spark confidence that the offense will take a major step forward after John Morton’s departure. Still, there may be less obvious reasons why the Lions felt Petzing was the right choice.

One potential factor is the future of tight end Sam LaPorta. Petzing played a key role in Trey McBride’s emergence as one of the NFL’s premier pass-catching tight ends while in Arizona, and that experience could directly benefit LaPorta. Beyond that, the hire may align with a longer-term strategy that prepares Detroit for life after LaPorta if a contract extension proves difficult.

How Drew Petzing Could Shape Sam LaPorta’s Future in Detroit

Optimism surrounding LaPorta stems largely from McBride’s production under Petzing. Over the last three seasons, McBride leads all tight ends in both receptions (318) and receiving yards (3,210), while ranking near the top in touchdown catches. Petzing has also worked extensively with productive tight ends elsewhere, including Austin Hooper and David Njoku during his time with the Cleveland Browns, as well as Kyle Rudolph during multiple seasons with the Minnesota Vikings.

Given that résumé, it’s easy to envision LaPorta continuing to thrive in Petzing’s system—especially considering LaPorta has already surpassed McBride’s touchdown total over the same three-year span. However, LaPorta’s situation is not without complications. A back injury cut his 2025 season short last November, and with his contract set to expire, Detroit must weigh whether committing long-term money is the right move.

If the Lions decide to explore alternatives, options exist. The upcoming free-agent market could feature younger tight ends like Kyle Pitts, Isaiah Likely, or Chig Okonkwo. The draft may also provide solutions, with prospects such as Oregon’s Kenyon Sadiq, Cincinnati’s Joe Royer, and Utah’s Dallen Bentley drawing interest.

According to Spotrac, LaPorta could command roughly $17.5 million per year on an extension. At the same time, Detroit will soon need to address new deals for Jahmyr Gibbs and Jack Campbell, whose projected market values exceed $20 million annually. Given those financial realities, it would be prudent for general manager Brad Holmes and the front office to prepare contingency plans.

While Petzing’s hiring likely wasn’t driven solely by LaPorta’s contract situation, his background with elite tight ends may prove significant—either by helping LaPorta reach another level or by easing the transition if the tight end’s time in Detroit is nearing its end.