The success the Detroit Lions have built over the past few seasons has naturally drawn attention from around the league. When a franchise performs well, other teams often look to replicate that formula by hiring people who helped create it.

Detroit has already seen that happen with its coaching staff, as coordinators Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn both left to accept head coaching opportunities. At the same time, assistant general manager Ray Agnew has quietly become a frequent name mentioned for potential general manager openings.

It’s possible that Agnew is waiting for the right situation before leaving Detroit. Rather than taking just any promotion, he may prefer a role that perfectly fits his vision for leading a front office. If Johnson, for instance, had accepted a head coaching job with a team that also needed a new general manager, Agnew could have been a natural candidate to follow him into that organization.

There was also speculation that Agnew might join Glenn with the New York Jets, but staying in Detroit appears to have been a smart professional decision if that possibility ever existed.

Still, many around the league believe Agnew will eventually get his chance to run a team’s football operations.

Agnew emerges as a potential option for a future GM vacancy

Earlier this offseason, the Minnesota Vikings made a surprising move by dismissing general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah several weeks after the season ended. Veteran executive Rob Brzezinski stepped in as interim general manager, with the expectation that the organization will decide on a permanent replacement after the draft.

At the moment, the situation appears to be leaning toward Brzezinski eventually being given the job on a full-time basis. However, the team would still be wise to evaluate other candidates before making that decision, and that process may already be underway.

Analysts AJ Schulte and Tyler Forness from AtoZ Sports recently suggested several external options the Vikings could consider for the role. Agnew was among the names they highlighted.

Agnew’s background makes him a distinctive candidate. Before moving into the front office, he spent 11 seasons playing in the NFL. After his playing career ended, he worked with the Los Angeles Rams as director of player development and team pastor before transitioning into scouting and executive responsibilities. Between his time with the Rams and the Lions, he is now approaching a decade of experience in personnel roles.

Around the league, Agnew has earned strong respect for his leadership and football knowledge. Although he is older than many first-time GM candidates, many believe it’s only a matter of time before he receives a legitimate opportunity to run an organization.

If the Vikings decide to pursue him, the Lions would not be able to prevent Agnew from interviewing for the position. Ultimately, the decision could depend on whether he feels the role is the right fit.

Either way, the timing could soon create a unique opening for Agnew, and Minnesota would likely be wise to consider him seriously as a candidate to lead their front office.