With the news of Ben Johnson leaving his role as offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions to become head coach of the Chicago Bears, the Lions now face the challenge of finding a new coordinator for the first time since 2022 when they promoted Johnson.

Before the announcement of Johnson’s departure, Lions head coach Dan Campbell addressed the media and explained his approach to finding a replacement.

“My job is to find the next man up who can give us the best chance to succeed on both sides of the ball,” Campbell said about moving forward without Johnson and possibly defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. “We won’t let this setback affect us—I’m not going to allow it. […] It’s a loss, but we’ll move forward and find the right people for us.”

Campbell emphasized that he would be closely involved in the search and outlined several priorities for the next coordinator:

“We can’t lose our identity” “I want to make sure Goff remains comfortable because he’s playing at an elite level” “I want to maintain our current terminology” “We have qualified guys on staff who could excel in those roles…” “… but I’m not ruling out external candidates either” “I’m not in a rush; I’ll take the time to make the right decision for our team” Although Campbell expressed a willingness to explore outside options, much of this checklist could be accomplished with an internal hire, so we’ll begin by looking at potential candidates from within.

5 Internal Candidates Scottie Montgomery Lions assistant head coach/running backs coach

When the Lions promoted Johnson in 2022, Montgomery (who was with the Colts at the time) was one of the finalists for the position. When the opportunity arose to bring him to Detroit in 2023, Campbell quickly hired him as assistant head coach and running backs coach.

Montgomery works on weekly game plans, collaborates with all players, and leads a weekly press conference. Having been with the team for a year, he’s intimately familiar with the roster and the team’s identity, making him a strong candidate to continue the team’s progress.

“Tons of things I’ve done behind the scenes with him, but also in front of the team,” Campbell said of Montgomery’s development. “He’s smart, driven, and outstanding, and the team is comfortable with him.”

Tanner Engstrand Lions passing game coordinator

Engstrand is the internal candidate that remains something of a mystery to many fans. He’s been quietly groomed for a larger role since joining the team in 2020.

Engstrand’s coaching journey began as a graduate assistant under Jim Harbaugh at the University of San Diego in 2005. He spent over a decade there before moving to Michigan with Harbaugh and eventually joining the Lions staff under Matt Patricia. Campbell kept Engstrand on board and promoted him to passing game coordinator in 2022. Engstrand’s broader focus on offensive planning in 2023 and 2024 further prepares him for a potential step up.

“Yeah, Tanner’s been great,” quarterback Jared Goff said. “He’s been extremely helpful for me.”

Hank Fraley Lions offensive line coach

Fraley is widely regarded as one of the best offensive line coaches in the NFL and has been with the Lions since 2018. His leadership has transformed the offensive line into one of the best in the league.

Fraley’s influence extends beyond offensive line play, as he plays a significant role in shaping the Lions’ rushing game plan each week.

“He’s been a huge blessing for me,” All-Pro center Frank Ragnow said. “He’s a heck of a coach.”

Fraley recently interviewed for the Seahawks’ offensive coordinator position and could get more opportunities in the future.

Antwaan Randle El Lions wide receiver coach

Randle El, a former NFL wide receiver with a Super Bowl win, is in his sixth season as an NFL coach. Under his guidance, the Lions’ wide receivers have become one of the most efficient units in the league, highlighted by Amon-Ra St. Brown’s two consecutive All-Pro selections.

Randle El has experience at both quarterback (college) and wide receiver (NFL), making him an intriguing candidate. His 2024 interview for the Bucs’ offensive coordinator position also speaks to his growing stature.

Mark Brunell Lions quarterbacks coach

Brunell, a 19-year NFL quarterback, has been with the Lions since 2021. His deep understanding of the quarterback position makes him an ideal candidate for a coordinator role, especially in terms of connecting with Goff.

Although Brunell isn’t the most experienced coach in this group, his football background is unrivaled, making him a strong potential hire—if he’s ready for the step up.

4 Candidates with Connections to Campbell Pete Carmichael Jr. Broncos, senior offensive assistant

When Campbell joined the Saints in 2016, Carmichael was already a well-established offensive coordinator with 14 years of experience in New Orleans. Carmichael’s offense consistently ranked among the top in the league, even when the team struggled following the departures of Sean Payton and Drew Brees.

Campbell is familiar with Carmichael’s coaching style and could seek a reunion in Detroit.

Ronald Curry Bills quarterbacks coach

Curry, a former NFL tight end, began his coaching career alongside Campbell in New Orleans. After working his way up to quarterbacks coach with the Bills, Curry has been instrumental in the development of Josh Allen.

Curry could be a strong candidate for the Lions, though his current commitment to the Bills may require patience.

Jeff Nixon Syracuse offensive coordinator and running backs coach

Nixon worked with Campbell in Miami, and they have maintained a professional relationship over the years. Nixon has experience as a running backs coach and offensive coordinator, including a stint in Carolina before moving to Syracuse.

Nixon’s familiarity with Campbell could make him a viable option for Detroit.

Josh McCown Vikings quarterbacks coach

McCown, who played with Campbell on the 2006 Lions roster, has quickly made a name for himself as a coach. After brief stints with the Panthers and now the Vikings, McCown has shown a talent for helping quarterbacks rebound.

Though still early in his coaching career, McCown is an intriguing candidate given his familiarity with Campbell.

3 Popular Candidates with an Outside Chance Nick Caley Rams tight end coach/passing game coordinator

Caley, who has worked with both the Patriots and Rams, is known for his proficiency in offensive schemes. While he’s not a household name, his coaching connections could make him an appealing option for Detroit.

Marcus Brady Chargers passing game coordinator

Brady, who rose to prominence as the Colts’ offensive coordinator, has experience coaching quarterbacks and wide receivers. His ability to adapt to various offensive schemes makes him a flexible candidate for Detroit.

Klint Kubiak Saints offensive coordinator

Kubiak has been a key figure in the NFL for several years, with experience coaching in multiple systems. Although he’s still under contract with New Orleans, his coaching ability and potential interest in Detroit could make him a consideration.

Familiar Names… But Probably Not in Contention Other names like Duce Staley, David Blough, Brian Griese, Byron Leftwich, Frank Reich, and Josh McDaniels may surface in discussions, but for various reasons—such as their recent career paths or lack of fit in Detroit’s system—they are unlikely to be serious candidates for the Lions’ offensive coordinator role.