The Detroit Lions made a surprise move this week, hiring Drew Petzing as their new offensive coordinator - a decision that came without any public reports of interviews or serious talks. But while the announcement may have caught fans off guard, it could signal a clear shift in offensive philosophy for a team already known for its physical identity under Dan Campbell.
Petzing comes to Detroit after three seasons as the offensive coordinator in Arizona, where he leaned heavily into multi-tight end sets - a trend that’s been gaining traction across the league. The Lions saw firsthand how tough that can be to defend, especially in matchups this season against teams like the Rams and Steelers, both of whom used heavy personnel to challenge Detroit’s defense at the point of attack. Now, it looks like the Lions are ready to flip the script and bring that same physicality to opposing defenses.
With the departure of tight ends coach Tyler Roehl, Petzing will likely have input into how the offensive coaching staff is restructured. That could be just the beginning of his influence. If Campbell gives him room to shape the offense in his image, don’t be surprised if a few familiar faces from Arizona pop up in Detroit this offseason.
A few names are already being floated as potential Petzing-linked additions. Offensive tackle Jonah Williams and center Hjalte Froholdt are two possibilities.
Williams is set to hit free agency, and Froholdt could be a cap casualty in Arizona. Both are versatile linemen who know Petzing’s system and could provide valuable depth - or even compete for starting roles - in Detroit’s already-strong offensive front.
But the most intriguing name tied to Petzing’s arrival? Running back James Conner.
Conner, 30, has been a steady presence in the Cardinals’ backfield over the last five seasons, racking up at least seven rushing touchdowns in four of those campaigns. The lone exception came this past season, when a right foot injury limited him to just three games. While the injury doesn’t appear to be a long-term concern, his age and contract could make him expendable under a new regime in Arizona.
If Conner were to land in Detroit, it would likely mean a major domino has fallen: David Montgomery being traded.
That possibility gained traction during GM Brad Holmes’ end-of-season press conference, where he didn’t shy away from the idea that Montgomery could be on the move. If that happens, Conner would be a logical short-term replacement - a veteran power back to complement the explosive Jahmyr Gibbs in a familiar two-back setup.
There’s also the chance that Petzing’s arrival could accelerate Montgomery’s desire to leave. If Montgomery has indeed expressed interest in a trade, as Holmes hinted, a new offensive coordinator with a different vision might be the final push.
Whether Conner ends up in Honolulu Blue or not, the Lions’ backfield situation is one to watch this offseason. With Sione Vaki waiting in the wings and the draft always an option for adding young talent, Detroit isn’t short on paths forward. But if the Lions are looking for a proven, physical runner who already knows the system and can step in right away, Conner makes a lot of sense.
The hiring of Drew Petzing isn’t just about play design or scheme - it’s about reshaping the offensive identity. And if the Lions are serious about leaning into that vision, don’t be surprised if some familiar faces from Arizona follow him to Motown.