Detroit Lions Could bring back Fired NFL Coach to Detroit
The Detroit Lions’ 2026 offseason officially began on January 4, and there’s a clear sense that change is coming. After a season that failed to meet expectations, head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes are now focused on reshaping the roster and coaching staff in hopes of restoring the momentum Detroit enjoyed just a year ago.
Detroit closed the 2025–26 campaign with a 9–8 record, finishing last in the NFC North. That outcome was a sharp contrast from the previous season, when the Lions dominated the division and finished atop the NFC before suffering an early playoff exit. While the disappointment lingered for much of the year, a late 19–16 win over the Chicago Bears offered a small boost heading into the offseason.
One of the biggest questions now centers on the coaching staff. Offensive coordinator John Morton did not finish the season calling plays, a move that strongly hinted the team would move in a different direction. With that change looming, attention has shifted to potential replacements.
One name gaining traction is former Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski. After leading Cleveland to two playoff appearances and earning NFL Coach of the Year honors twice, Stefanski suddenly became available following his dismissal. Some analysts believe he could be an ideal fit as Detroit’s next offensive coordinator, especially if he prefers a reset rather than immediately jumping back into a head coaching role.
Although Stefanski’s overall record in Cleveland was below .500, context matters. His final seasons were complicated by instability at quarterback following the Browns’ high-risk move for Deshaun Watson. Supporters argue that Stefanski’s offensive background and experience could pair well with Campbell’s leadership style if Detroit chooses to pursue him.
Beyond coaching decisions, the Lions are also evaluating ways to strengthen the roster. One area under scrutiny is the secondary, which has been repeatedly hit by injuries. Analysts have pointed to Avieon Terrell, a defensive back prospect and younger brother of Falcons star A.J. Terrell, as a potential draft target.
Detroit already has young talent under contract at cornerback, but recurring depth issues have exposed the need for additional reliable options. Addressing that weakness, whether through the draft or free agency, could be a priority as the Lions aim to avoid the same setbacks that derailed recent seasons.
As the offseason unfolds, Detroit faces key choices that could define its 2026 outlook—starting with who helps lead the offense and how the roster is reinforced.
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