Dan Campbell has some work to do.
It should be viewed as a complement that other NFL franchises are raiding Detroit’s coaching staff in search of trying to replicate what Campbell has recently built.
Offensive Coordinator Ben Johnson and Defensive Coordinator Aaron Glenn have both left to become head coaches with the Chicago Bears and New York Jets, respectively. Defensive line coach Terrell Williams is now the new Defensive Coordinator with the New England Patriots.
From there, a host of the other assistant coaches could be joining Johnson and Glenn at their new stops. For one, QB Coach Mark Brunell may be in line to become the Jets’ new offensive coordinator. Jett Modkins and Jim O’Neil could be headed elsewhere. One report has DB coach Deshea Townsend in firm contention to be the new DC for the San Francisco 49ers. OL coach Hank Fraley has reportedly had multiple interviews with the Seattle Seahawks about their vacant OC spot.
For as good as Campbell has been with the Lions, this offseason will likely present him with the biggest collective challenge he’s had since taking over: Rebuilding the coaching staff.
The roster is unlikely to change very much. Having said continuity should help in ushering in new coaches. Detroit also has to contend with the fact that they’re now a ‘hunted’ team — and one with real expectations.
Wading into these unchartered waters can lead to a step back. Knowing how passionate and hard-working Campbell is, surely the Lions will do everything in their power to replicate the success they had this past season.
