The Detroit Lions’ season came to a disappointing end. Despite finishing with an impressive 15-2 record and earning the NFC’s No. 1 seed, their playoff run ended prematurely.
The Lions fell to the Washington Commanders in a 45-31 defeat, bringing their season to a close. Quarterback Jared Goff struggled with four turnovers during the game but received public support from head coach Dan Campbell and several teammates in the locker room.
As the offseason begins, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Lions expect both offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn to secure head coaching jobs in the coming days.
Lions Rumors: Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn Expected to Become Head Coaches
According to Schefter, Detroit’s early playoff exit accelerated the hiring process for both Johnson and Glenn, who are regarded as two of the NFL’s most sought-after coaching candidates.
Johnson is widely recognized as one of the league’s brightest offensive minds. He has been linked to teams such as the Jacksonville Jaguars and Chicago Bears, but recent reports suggest the Las Vegas Raiders may now be the frontrunner.
Under Johnson’s leadership, Detroit finished the season ranked second in total offense (409.5 yards per game), second in passing offense (263.2 yards per game), sixth in rushing offense (146.4 yards per game), and first in scoring offense (33.2 points per game).
On the defensive side, Glenn played a significant role in leading the Lions through a season marred by injuries. Known for his leadership and readiness to take on a head coaching role, Glenn is reportedly a candidate for positions with the New York Jets, Dallas Cowboys, and New Orleans Saints.
Offensive Line Coach Hank Fraley Drawing Interest
Offensive line coach Hank Fraley is also garnering attention for a promotion. According to Dan Graziano of ESPN, Fraley is scheduled for a second interview with the Seattle Seahawks for their offensive coordinator position on Tuesday. The meeting will take place in person, following an earlier remote interview.
The Seahawks are considering other candidates for the role, including Vikings assistant offensive coordinator/assistant quarterbacks coach Grant Udinski and Saints offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak.
Fraley, a former NFL player with a decade of experience, joined the Lions’ coaching staff in 2018. Following the playoff loss, Lions center Frank Ragnow expressed his hope that Fraley would remain in Detroit.
Coaching Changes on the Horizon
Regardless of where Johnson and Glenn land, their departures from Detroit appear imminent, leaving the Lions’ sideline with a new look in 2025. While key players are expected to return, the coaching staff is poised for significant changes as the offseason unfolds.