The Detroit Lions continued reshaping their coaching staff this offseason by bringing in former New York Giants interim head coach Mike Kafka as the team’s new passing game coordinator.

Kafka previously worked as the Giants’ offensive coordinator before briefly serving as the team’s interim head coach. Before moving into coaching, he also had a short playing career in the NFL as a quarterback with the Philadelphia Eagles. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching and later worked as a quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Throughout his playing and coaching journey, Kafka had multiple opportunities to work with legendary head coach Andy Reid. Reid, who knows Kafka well from their time together with both the Eagles and Chiefs, recently spoke highly of the Lions’ newest addition.

Andy Reid Praises Mike Kafka’s Ability

Reid expressed strong confidence in Kafka and believes Detroit made a smart decision by adding him to the coaching staff.

Reid recalled first bringing Kafka into the league after selecting him from Northwestern Wildcats football, emphasizing that he has always respected Kafka’s intelligence and football knowledge. According to Reid, Kafka possesses a sharp football mind and the qualities necessary to succeed in his new role, adding that he expects him to make a positive impact for Detroit.

Such praise from a highly respected coach like Reid is encouraging for Lions fans, especially as the team aims to bounce back next season. Detroit narrowly missed the postseason in 2025 after finishing the year with a 9–8 record, and the organization hopes its new coaching additions will help push the team back into playoff contention.

Lions Reshape Offensive Coaching Staff

Kafka was not the only offensive-minded coach added during the offseason. The Lions decided to move on from offensive coordinator John Morton after just one season in the role. During the 2025 campaign, head coach Dan Campbell eventually took over play-calling responsibilities, but the adjustment did not lead to a playoff berth.

To address that situation, Detroit hired former Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing to run the offense.

Shortly after Kafka’s hiring was announced earlier in the year, Petzing spoke about the value Kafka brings to the staff. He noted that the coaching group is composed of individuals with diverse experiences, backgrounds, and systems, which can be beneficial when developing offensive strategies. Petzing emphasized that having adaptable coaches who are open to collaboration helps the staff work toward the best solutions for the team.

He also highlighted Kafka as an important contributor to that collaborative approach, pointing out that the variety of perspectives within the coaching room can spark creativity and ultimately strengthen the offense.

Mike Kafka’s Playing Career

Before establishing himself as a coach, Kafka spent time with several NFL franchises as a quarterback. During his playing career, he was part of multiple organizations, including the Philadelphia Eagles, New England Patriots, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Minnesota Vikings, Tennessee Titans, and Cincinnati Bengals.

That wide-ranging experience around the league has helped shape his coaching perspective—something the Lions hope will strengthen their offensive staff as they prepare for the upcoming season.