The Detroit Lions enter the playoffs with a strong position as the top seed in the NFC, but they may be facing challenges that could affect their future.
After a bye week, the Lions are set to play the Washington Commanders on January 18 in the Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs.
While the team is enjoying a successful season, with home games throughout the playoffs and high expectations, some experts are already turning their attention to what might happen after this season.
The Lions’ success can be attributed to a combination of strong players, a dedicated coaching staff, and effective management, led by general manager Brad Holmes.
However, some of these key elements may be missing in the future. While this doesn’t necessarily mean the Lions will decline, it is an issue to keep an eye on as the season progresses.
One significant concern is the possibility that the Lions could lose both of their top coordinators, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.
Both have been receiving attention from other NFL teams, with several already interviewing them for their head coach openings. The Lions may soon find themselves needing to replace these crucial positions.
Adam Schefter, a well-known NFL insider, appeared on “The Pat McAfee Show” on January 14 to discuss the current head coach search across the league.
He noted that Glenn is a strong candidate for a head coaching position, mentioning that he’s being considered for the New York Jets’ coaching job. Schefter also made a striking prediction for the Lions’ future.
He stated that both Johnson and Glenn are likely to secure head coaching positions during this cycle.
According to Schefter, it would be a “major upset” if Glenn didn’t land a head coaching job, and he’s confident that both coordinators will be hired by other teams.
While the Lions are focusing on their playoff push, the futures of Glenn and Johnson are a concern for the team’s long-term stability.
In a press session on January 13, Lions head coach Dan Campbell was asked whether he had spoken to his coordinators about their head coach interviews or received any updates on their status.
Campbell responded with a lighthearted tone, indicating he hadn’t pressed them for information. “Well, why would I want to know that? You think I want them to leave?” Campbell joked.
He acknowledged that both coordinators have contributed significantly to the team’s 15-2 record this season, and it’s no small feat.
Campbell further explained that while he’s aware of the situation, he hasn’t made a point to ask about their potential departures. “I’ve got an idea of how they’re doing,” he said. “I have not run in there and asked if they’re leaving yet.
I didn’t do that.” Campbell emphasized that he would eventually talk to both coordinators about the results of their interviews when the time was right.
In the short term, the Lions are focused on their playoff goals, but the uncertainty around their coordinators’ future presents a challenge for the franchise. Their departure could have a significant impact on the team’s plans going forward.
Nonetheless, the Lions will continue to aim for success in the postseason, with the added complexity of facing potential staff changes on the horizon.
As head coach searches across the league intensify, the Detroit Lions will have to consider how they might manage potential turnover among their coaching staff while pursuing a deep playoff run.
