The 2025 campaign was a disappointing one for the Detroit Lions. Offensive coordinator John Morton proved that he wasn’t right for the job and was ultimately let go, while injuries and lack of quality depth played a huge part in the team missing the playoffs.
General manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell entered the offseason knowing they needed to make a handful of changes to keep the Lions' Super Bowl aspirations alive. Although it’s been a few weeks since the regular season ended, the Lions have quickly addressed some of the team’s top priorities, such as the hirings of Drew Petzing and Mike Kafka to their offensive staff.
This, along with bringing back some potential contributors on futures contracts, has them earning an A- offseason grade thus far.
Lions Deserve an A- for Early Offseason Decisions
The Lions' first, and obvious, decision this offseason was to move on from Morton. After the first few weeks, it was painfully evident that the offense was nowhere near as dominant without former OC Ben Johnson, and that a change needed to be made.
Although any candidate would’ve been an upgrade over Morton, the Lions nailed their choice with the hiring of Petzing. The addition of the creative offensive mind prevented Johnson and the Chicago Bears from potentially getting their hands on him, which is a significant win for Lions fans.
Across his three-year calling the plays for the Arizona Cardinals, Petzing had done a fine job with the tools he was given. In his first two years with the Cardinals, Petzing prioritized establishing the run game, but with injuries to running backs James Conner and Trey Benson, he opted for a pass-heavy approach, finishing the season seventh in passing yards per game (232.6) and first in passing attempts (38.2).
This strategy should bode well with quarterback Jared Goff, who’s already expressed his approval with the Petzing hire, and tight end Sam LaPorta. Petzing leaned heavily on 12 personnel, which helped transform tight end Trey McBride into one of the premier players at his position. With Petzing in the fold, LaPorta will likely be more involved in the passing game and ultimately see his targets approach his rookie total.
Petzing will also be getting assistance from Kafka, who was another tremendous hire by the Lions. Having also been an offensive coordinator in his previous stint, Kafka provides the Lions with experience designing and scheming an offense.
Like Petzing, Kafka didn’t have a superb offensive unit but adapted to their strengths. As play caller of the New York Giants, Kafka’s offense finished fifth in rushing yards (129.1) last season and second in rushing attempts (30.1).
Even though Kafka’s role is undisclosed, he should play a critical role in installing the game plan while also being someone Petzing can bounce ideas off of. He should instantly connect with the players, having been a former quarterback, and build a great rapport with Goff.
Although we have to wait until both the free agency and draft periods are over to give the Lions a proper grade, fans must be happy with the team’s start. Bringing in two young offensive minds should result in creative playcalling similar to when Johnson was dialing up plays, and a better product for fans.