Lions Eye Former Falcons OC Zac Robinson in Search for Offensive Spark
The Detroit Lions are turning to a name with ties to their quarterback as they search for their next offensive coordinator. Former Atlanta Falcons OC Zac Robinson is set to interview for the job on Thursday, according to multiple sources.
While Robinson doesn’t have direct ties to the Lions organization, he does have a key connection that could make this a seamless fit: Jared Goff. The two spent time together with the Los Angeles Rams, where Robinson was part of Sean McVay’s coaching staff starting in 2019. That familiarity with Goff’s strengths, tendencies, and rhythm could be exactly what Detroit needs after an up-and-down offensive season.
Robinson, a former NFL quarterback himself, was drafted in the seventh round back in 2010. His playing career was brief, but he quickly found his coaching footing under one of the league’s most respected offensive minds in McVay. That Rams system helped shape the modern NFL offense, and Robinson was right in the thick of it during Goff’s most productive years.
He later took the reins in Atlanta, serving as the Falcons’ offensive coordinator in 2022 and 2023. In his first year, he helped guide the Falcons to the 13th-best scoring offense in the league, working with quarterbacks Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix.
That’s no small feat considering the transition and development involved. Injuries hampered the team’s output the following season, and Atlanta dropped to 24th in scoring, but Robinson’s offensive vision remained clear.
At 39, Robinson is considered one of the more innovative young minds in the game. His experience with multiple quarterback styles, his time in one of the NFL’s most forward-thinking offensive systems, and his existing rapport with Goff make him a compelling candidate for Detroit.
The Lions are coming off a season where their offense showed flashes but lacked consistency, especially through the air. Goff, while still capable, didn’t always look comfortable or in sync with the scheme. Bringing in someone who understands how to get the best out of him-and who’s done it before-could be the key to unlocking another level in Detroit’s attack.
Robinson has also reportedly drawn interest from other teams, including Tampa Bay, but Detroit presents a unique opportunity. With a strong offensive line, a talented young core, and a quarterback he knows, the Lions could be the perfect landing spot for Robinson to make his mark again.
The interview is scheduled for Thursday. If things go well, Detroit might just be one step closer to reigniting the firepower that made them one of the league’s most exciting offenses not long ago.