Detroit Lions Shake Up Coaching Staff with Bold Hires and Game-Changing Moves

The Detroit Lions have officially completed their coaching staff for the offseason, bringing in several new faces while also reshuffling roles within the team. Head coach Dan Campbell and his staff have been actively making adjustments to ensure continued progress heading into the 2025 season.

Among the key hires, former Texas running backs coach Tashard Choice joins the Lions in the same role. Choice, a former NFL running back, also coached current Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs during his time at Georgia Tech. The team has also brought in Caleb Collins and August Mangin as defensive assistants, Bruce Gradkowski and Marques Tuiasosopo as offensive assistants, and Justin Mesa in an offensive quality control role. Tyler Roehl has been named the tight ends coach, replacing Steve Heiden. Roehl brings years of experience from his time coaching at North Dakota State and Iowa State.

On the defensive side, Kacy Rodgers has been appointed as the run game coordinator and defensive line coach, while Deshea Townsend has been promoted to lead the entire defensive backs unit, also serving as defensive passing game coordinator.

In a notable hire, David Shaw has joined the Lions as the passing game coordinator. Shaw is widely respected in coaching circles after a successful 12-year tenure as Stanford’s head coach, where he compiled a 96-54 record and led the team to five bowl victories, including two Rose Bowl wins. Shaw’s wealth of experience will be valuable as the Lions refine their offensive approach.

Additionally, Scottie Montgomery, who previously coached running backs, has transitioned to wide receivers coach while maintaining his role as assistant head coach. Montgomery has both played and coached at the position, making the move a natural fit. Hank Fraley continues as the offensive line coach but now adds run game coordinator to his responsibilities.