Detroit Lions Coaching Shake-Up: What’s Next for Mark Brunell and Aaron Glenn?

Ben Johnson’s Departure and the Lions’ Coaching Transition
The Detroit Lions are facing a significant shift in their coaching staff following the departure of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who accepted the Chicago Bears’ head coaching position. While this move wasn’t entirely unexpected—head coach Dan Campbell had previously acknowledged the possibility of losing key coordinators—it has triggered a domino effect that could further reshape the Lions’ sideline leadership.

The spotlight now shifts to defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, who has emerged as a leading candidate for head coaching roles with both the New York Jets and the New Orleans Saints. Reports from Fox Sports insider Jordan Schultz indicate that Glenn has already interviewed with the Jets and is considering their offer. Adding to the intrigue, Glenn is reportedly constructing his potential coaching staff, which could include Lions quarterbacks coach Mark Brunell as his offensive coordinator.

Mark Brunell’s Coaching Journey and Impact on Jared Goff
Mark Brunell’s NFL pedigree is well-established. A former quarterback with notable stints for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Washington Commanders, New Orleans Saints, and New York Jets, Brunell enjoyed a successful playing career that spanned over 18 seasons. After retiring in 2012, he transitioned into coaching, first at the high school level in Jacksonville, where he led the Episcopal School to a 51-32-1 record during his tenure.

In 2021, Brunell joined the Lions coaching staff as the quarterbacks coach under Dan Campbell. His work with Jared Goff has been nothing short of transformative. Under Brunell’s guidance, Goff evolved into one of the NFL’s top-performing quarterbacks, highlighted by a stellar 2024 season in which he threw for 4,629 yards, 37 touchdowns, and just 12 interceptions. This development has solidified Brunell’s reputation as a coach capable of maximizing a quarterback’s potential, making him a prime candidate for higher coaching responsibilities.

Aaron Glenn’s Potential Departure and Its Ripple Effect
Should Aaron Glenn accept a head coaching role, it would mark another major transition for the Lions. Glenn has been instrumental in turning around Detroit’s defense, which played a key role in the team’s resurgence in recent seasons. His leadership and strategic acumen have earned him widespread respect across the league, making him a strong contender for a top coaching role.

If Glenn does take the reins of a new team, it’s widely speculated that he would bring Brunell along as his offensive coordinator. This would provide Glenn with a trusted ally and offensive mind to help shape his new team’s direction. For Brunell, it would represent a logical next step in his coaching career, offering him the chance to showcase his abilities as a play-caller and offensive architect.

In-House Options for the Lions’ Offensive Coordinator Role
While Brunell’s potential departure looms, the Lions have a strong pool of in-house candidates to fill their offensive coordinator vacancy. Running backs coach Scottie Montgomery, pass game coordinator Tanner Engstrand, and offensive line coach Hank Fraley are all considered viable options. Each brings unique strengths and familiarity with the team’s system, offering continuity as the Lions navigate this period of transition.

What’s Next for the Lions?
The Lions are at a crossroads. With significant changes to their coaching staff on the horizon, the team faces a critical offseason that will determine their trajectory moving forward. While the loss of Ben Johnson and potentially Aaron Glenn and Mark Brunell poses challenges, the Lions’ strong roster and established culture under Dan Campbell provide a solid foundation.

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the coaching carousel unfolds. Whether Aaron Glenn becomes the Jets’ or Saints’ next head coach or stays in Detroit, and whether Mark Brunell takes on a larger role elsewhere or remains with the Lions, one thing is clear: the Lions’ coaching decisions in the coming weeks will have a lasting impact on their future.

The NFL’s hiring cycle is always full of surprises, and the Lions are no exception. Stay tuned as Detroit navigates this pivotal moment in their quest to build on their recent success.