The Detroit Lions’ hiring of Drew Petzing as offensive coordinator sparked immediate debate among fans, and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown didn’t hide his frustration with the reaction.

However, his comments have now drawn criticism from a respected former teammate.

Former Lions Pro Bowl guard T.J. Lang publicly warned St. Brown about clashing with fans after what many viewed as a patronizing response to criticism of the new offensive coordinator hire.

T.J. Lang Criticizes St. Brown’s Tone Toward Fans

Speaking on 97.1 The Ticket, Lang questioned why St. Brown would respond to social media backlash at all, suggesting the receiver fell into a common trap.

“When you try to insult the fans’ intelligence, that’s just a lose-lose,” Lang said, via Sports Illustrated’s Christian Booher. “You’re responding to social media that isn’t real. Most of it is people trolling you just to get a reaction.”

Lang stressed that Lions fans are more engaged now than at any point in decades due to the team’s recent success.

“You have to read the room,” Lang added. “These fans are passionate. They feel more connected to this team than they have in 50 years. Every move this organization makes is going to be scrutinized — and that’s actually a good thing.”

What Amon-Ra St. Brown Said About Lions Fans

St. Brown addressed the criticism on the St. Brown Bros Podcast, telling fans to trust head coach Dan Campbell and the organization’s decision-making process.

“I see crazy Lions fans talking crazy,” St. Brown said, via SI’s John Maakaron. “Do you guys have no trust in Dan? You think they hired a random dude? Most of you guys don’t really know much about ball and you’re tweeting about a coach you don’t like.”

While St. Brown’s message was focused on giving Petzing a chance, many felt his delivery came off as dismissive and condescending toward the fan base.

Fan Reaction to Drew Petzing Hire Was Largely Negative

When the Lions officially hired Petzing on January 19, social media reaction leaned heavily negative. Many fans questioned why Detroit didn’t pursue a more proven offensive coordinator after Ben Johnson’s departure.

St. Brown defended the move, urging patience. However, critics argue that skepticism is understandable based on Petzing’s track record.

Drew Petzing’s Arizona Track Record Raises Concerns

During his three seasons as Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator, Petzing’s offenses never ranked inside the NFL’s top 10 in yards or scoring.

In 2025:

Cardinals ranked 19th in total offense

Cardinals ranked 23rd in points scored

Those numbers fueled doubts about his readiness for a high-profile role with a Super Bowl-contending roster like Detroit’s.

Supporters point out that Petzing worked under Ben Johnson early in his career and will now have significantly more offensive talent, including Amon-Ra St. Brown and a stronger quarterback situation.

Pressure on Petzing Could Impact St. Brown’s Comments

The Lions’ offensive coordinator position was one of the most coveted jobs of the offseason, making the hire more surprising given Petzing’s lack of elite results.

If Petzing thrives, St. Brown’s defense of the hire will be vindicated. If not, fans are unlikely to forget his pointed remarks toward the fan base.

In the NFL, results determine perception — and both Petzing and St. Brown will be under intense scrutiny as the 2026 season approaches.