The Detroit Lions are back in the market for an offensive coordinator, and the search is heating up. After parting ways with John Morton following just one season, Detroit is wasting no time exploring its options - and two names have already emerged as serious candidates: Mike McDaniel and Zac Robinson.
McDaniel, the former Miami Dolphins head coach and a fan favorite in Detroit, interviewed with the team on Tuesday. But all eyes now turn to Thursday, when the Lions are set to meet with Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator Zac Robinson - a name that might not generate as much buzz, but one that carries some intriguing connections and potential upside.
Let’s break it down.
The Goff-Robinson Connection
Robinson’s most immediate tie to Detroit is his past work with quarterback Jared Goff. Back in 2019, Robinson served as the assistant quarterbacks coach for the Los Angeles Rams - a season in which Goff threw for over 4,600 yards and led the Rams to a 9-7 finish. That familiarity could be a valuable asset, especially in an offense that’s still very much built around Goff’s timing, rhythm, and decision-making.
Reuniting the two could offer a level of continuity that’s hard to find this late in the hiring cycle. And with head coach Dan Campbell looking to keep the offensive identity sharp and aggressive, a coordinator who already understands Goff’s strengths and tendencies might be exactly what the Lions need.
The Risk Factor with Robinson
But let’s be real: this isn’t a slam dunk.
Robinson’s two-year run as Atlanta’s offensive coordinator left plenty to be desired. Yes, the Falcons had a young, talented roster - especially on offense - but the results didn’t match the potential.
Atlanta finished 24th in points scored, 19th in passing yards, and 26th in total touchdowns. Those numbers paint a picture of an offense that struggled to find consistency, particularly through the air.
It’s fair to point out that Robinson wasn’t working in the most stable environment. The Falcons had their own coaching issues, and former head coach Raheem Morris took plenty of heat for the team’s shortcomings.
Still, Robinson was the one calling plays, and the offense didn’t deliver when it mattered most. That’s something Detroit’s front office will need to weigh carefully.
A Fresh Start in Detroit?
That said, a new setting can change everything. Dan Campbell has built a culture rooted in accountability, toughness, and player development - something that might give Robinson the structure he needs to elevate his play-calling. And while his track record in Atlanta was uneven, Robinson did show flashes of creativity, especially in how he utilized star running back Bijan Robinson.
That’s where things get interesting for Detroit.
With Jahmyr Gibbs coming off a breakout season, pairing him with a coordinator who knows how to scheme for dynamic backs could be a smart move. Bijan was often the engine of Atlanta’s offense, and if Robinson can bring that same run-centric creativity to Motown, it could help the Lions re-establish the ground game that was so effective under former OC Ben Johnson.
High Stakes in the Motor City
Make no mistake: this is a critical offseason for the Lions.
After a disappointing 9-8 finish and a last-place showing in the NFC North - just one year removed from being a playoff team - Detroit needs to hit on this hire. The offense has the pieces: a veteran quarterback, a pair of explosive backs, a reliable O-line, and a receiving corps that can stretch the field. What it needs now is the right voice to bring it all together.
Whether that’s Mike McDaniel or Zac Robinson remains to be seen. McDaniel brings head coaching experience and a modern offensive mind. Robinson brings familiarity with Goff and the potential to grow under Campbell’s leadership.
Either way, Detroit can’t afford to miss. The window for contention is still open - but only if they get this next move right.