The Detroit Lions watched as less-than-ideal news broke this week, with receivers coach and assistant head coach Scottie Montgomery being announced as an interview option for the Baltimore Ravens.
Baltimore is searching for an offensive coordinator fit under new head coach Jesse Minter. While it is exciting for Montgomery personally, the franchise has every reason to hope the coach returns, as Detroit has just given fans a reason to believe in an offensive turnaround after the addition of Mike Kafka. Now, the Lions are at risk of losing a valued coach who has gotten obvious results throughout his tenure.
If you're doubting Montgomery's impact, look at the development of both Jameson Williams and Amon-Ra St. Brown. Both receivers have become game-changing options under Montgomery and continue to excel even as the offense enters a bit of a reset. Furthering this is the flashes that rookie Isaac TeSlaa showed under the coach, making an impact this past season and showing consistent development throughout the year.
While it is impossible not to acknowledge the potential upgrade that comes with calling plays for Lamar Jackson, the Lions need the stability of the coach to return. Montgomery is vital not only to building receivers but also to helping Dan Campbell transition the offense over to its next play caller. For the Lions, if the outside interest becomes serious enough, the franchise has to consider whatever they can reasonably offer to keep an important coaching piece.
Lions Concerns Are Obvious as Scottie Montgomery Becomes Surprise OC Candidate
Even lesser athletes like Tim Patrick and Tom Kennedy have seen success under Montgomery, pointing to a consistent impact through his three seasons with the Lions. This is telling as well, with Campbell making several changes to his staff but continuing to trust Montgomery in an important role. This reinforces the importance of his contributions and why Detroit fans should hope for his return in the 2026 season.
However, the wide receivers coach returning won't be the end of this, with an interview during this coaching cycle indicating a bright future. This means the Lions are looking at promoting from within over the next year or face losing the valued coach. It is a situation to keep an eye on as the Lions work to breathe life back into the offense in what is a pivotal offseason.
For Montgomery, it is objectively exciting to show his standing and respect throughout the league. Having the possibility to call plays for Jackson shows the great respect he is garnering and leaves Detroit with a sense of urgency to find a path that doesn't quickly end with Montgomery's exit. A situation that seems increasingly likely as the Lions continue their offseason coaching decisions.