There’s growing speculation that ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky might be a candidate for the Detroit Lions offensive coordinator position, but will it materialize into something real?
The Lions are facing a major shakeup in their coaching staff. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has already departed for the Bears, and more staff members may follow him. This leaves the Lions in need of a new offensive coordinator, and while many believed they’d simply promote from within, that doesn’t appear to be a foregone conclusion. Head coach Dan Campbell is open to exploring all options.
“I think we’ve got guys on staff that I think are more than qualified and would be outstanding in those roles, but that does not mean that I’m not looking outside either,” Campbell said.
One name that has been circulating lately is ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky. There’s a bit of buzz surrounding the possibility of him being considered for the role.
For one, there’s a connection. Campbell and Orlovsky were teammates in Detroit for two seasons and have a solid rapport. Additionally, Orlovsky served as Jared Goff’s backup briefly in Los Angeles during the 2017 season.
Recently, Orlovsky mentioned on air that he’s interested in coaching. Following that, he revealed that two coaches reached out to him—one building a staff for a potential head coaching role and another already in need of a coordinator.
The second scenario narrows the field significantly. Could Campbell have been the one to contact Orlovsky? That remains uncertain, but Orlovsky appears to be open to the idea and possibly even eager for the opportunity.
Lions fans might have reservations about this. Some of Orlovsky’s on-air takes can be divisive, and there’s the infamous moment when he stepped out of the back of the end zone during a game. Those concerns are understandable.
However, Orlovsky’s football intelligence has never been in question. There’s a reason he lasted eight more seasons in the NFL after that misstep. Like Sean Payton, Jason Garrett, and Jim Harbaugh—former quarterbacks who became successful coaches—Orlovsky’s value lies in his understanding of the game.
It’s worth noting that the Lions’ last offensive coordinator, Ben Johnson, wasn’t an NFL quarterback, yet he excelled in the role. Some individuals may lack the ability to execute on the field but thrive in teaching others how to do so.
The Packers also reportedly reached out to Orlovsky last season, showing that his coaching potential isn’t just a novelty—it’s legitimate.
The Lions’ decision will unfold soon, but don’t be surprised if Orlovsky gets an interview. The smoke is there, and there might just be fire behind it.
