The New York Giants have been active early in the NFL offseason, starting with their surprising decision to hire John Harbaugh as head coach after his departure from the Baltimore Ravens. Harbaugh’s arrival quickly led to changes across the Giants’ coaching staff, including the exit of former interim head coach Mike Kafka, who has now found a new opportunity in the NFL.

Kafka, who served as the Giants’ offensive coordinator for several seasons, was elevated to interim head coach late in the 2025 campaign after the team moved on from Brian Daboll. Despite the promotion, Kafka was unable to reverse New York’s struggles, making it unlikely he would be retained as the franchise’s full-time head coach.

Still, Kafka’s offensive background and prior success as a coordinator made him a candidate for assistant coaching roles around the league. While he did not generate significant head coaching interest this cycle, Kafka has secured a notable position with the Detroit Lions under head coach Dan Campbell.

According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Kafka will join Detroit’s staff in a high-ranking offensive role.

“Former Giants interim coach Mike Kafka is joining the Lions in a high-ranking offensive staff role, per sources,” Pelissero posted on X. “Kafka, 38, has been a finalist for multiple head coaching jobs in recent years. Now, an opportunity to learn from one of the best with Dan Campbell in Detroit.”

The Lions recently hired Drew Petzing as their new offensive coordinator following the departure of Ben Johnson, but Campbell continues to strengthen his staff as Detroit looks to rebound offensively in the 2026 season. Adding Kafka gives the Lions another experienced offensive mind who can assist with game planning and player development.

Kafka’s move also signals a complete reset for the Giants’ coaching staff under Harbaugh. Since taking over, Harbaugh has made it clear he intends to build a new group of assistants aligned with his vision for the franchise.

With Kafka now officially gone, the Giants must continue moving quickly to fill out key coaching positions as top candidates across the NFL are being hired rapidly.