Detroit's OC vacancy could tilt betting markets: interest in Mike McDaniel hints at a quicker, creative offense — bettors may favor higher team totals and boosted passing/rushing player props, while spreads could tighten if Detroit hires an established offensive play-caller. Expect lines to react as the Lions' offensive identity becomes clearer.
Lions Open Search for Offensive Coordinator After Quick Turnover
The Detroit Lions have begun a search for a new offensive coordinator after parting ways with John Morton following one season. Head coach Dan Campbell assumed play-calling duties midseason, and the organization is now exploring several candidates, including reported interest in former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel.
Holmes Lays Out What He Wants in a Hire
General Manager Brad Holmes said the club is "looking at everything" and listed clear priorities for the role: leadership, attention to detail and command of the room. "There has to be leadership, there has to be detail-oriented, there’s got to be command of the room," Holmes said. "You just have to be able to dot every ‘i,’ cross every ‘T’ and make sure that nothing is compromised from a detail standpoint, from a standards standpoint from the start of the game-planning period all the way ‘till the end of the week."
Experience Calling Plays Is Not an Absolute Requirement
Holmes emphasized that prior experience calling plays isn't mandatory. "I’ve been around previous coaches that have not done it and did it and had a lot of success with it," he said, noting the club will vet candidates thoroughly, spend time with them and evaluate philosophies before deciding.
Why Morton Was Let Go
Morton had worked with the organization previously in 2022 as a senior offensive assistant, which contributed to his return last year. Despite positives, the front office chose to move on quickly as other candidates became available. "Johnny did a lot of good things this time around," Holmes said. "But there is a time where you just have to make a decision... we felt that it’s time to just move on and start fresh."
Timing and Next Steps
There was no set deadline for the hire. Holmes described the move as part of the business reality of coaching turnover and suggested the team will continue vetting until they find the right fit.
Betting and On-Field Implications
A hire like Mike McDaniel or another offensive-minded coordinator would likely push the Lions toward a faster, more creative attack, which could raise betting expectations for game totals and offensive player props (passing yards, rushing attempts, receptions). If Detroit solidifies a clear offensive identity in the offseason, expect spreads and player lines to adjust as sportsbooks factor in anticipated production increases.
The Lions are in search of a new offensive coordinator.
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