The Detroit Lions are set for a major coaching staff overhaul in 2025, with several assistants already departing for new opportunities. Among the most notable exits are offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.
Now, the Lions could be on the verge of losing another key staff member. According to ESPN’s Todd Archer, Detroit running backs coach Scottie Montgomery has interviewed for the Dallas Cowboys’ offensive coordinator position.
“According to multiple sources, the Cowboys interviewed Detroit running backs coach Scottie Montgomery for their offensive coordinator opening,” Archer reported. “Add him to the list of Klayton Adams and Kevin Koger.”
However, there may be good news for Detroit. NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reports that Arizona Cardinals offensive line coach Klayton Adams is currently the frontrunner for the role under new Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer.
“The Cowboys are interviewing (Arizona) Cardinals OL coach Klayton Adams for their offensive coordinator position in person today at The Star, sources say,” Garafolo stated. “The favorite to land the gig on Brian Schottenheimer’s coaching staff is in the building to meet with folks after interviewing virtually.”
Montgomery was previously considered a strong candidate for the Lions’ offensive coordinator role following Johnson’s departure to the Chicago Bears. However, Detroit ultimately selected John Morton for the position.
That decision was somewhat surprising, as head coach Dan Campbell had previously spoken highly of Montgomery and even suggested he should be a head-coaching candidate.
Departed Lions Coaches:
Ben Johnson (Offensive Coordinator) – Hired as Bears Head Coach
Aaron Glenn (Defensive Coordinator) – Hired as Jets Head Coach
Terrell Williams (Defensive Line Coach) – Hired as Patriots Defensive Coordinator
Antwaan Randle El (Wide Receivers Coach) – Hired as Bears WRs Coach/Assistant Head Coach
J.T. Barrett (Assistant Quarterbacks Coach) – Hired as Bears QBs Coach
Steve Heiden (Tight Ends Coach) – Hired as Jets Offensive Line Coach
Additionally, passing-game coordinator Tanner Engstrand is expected to join the Jets as their new offensive coordinator, per The Athletic’s Zack Rosenblatt. Detroit is reportedly set to replace him with former Stanford head coach David Shaw.
