Sat Jan 24 05:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Lions Tap Drew Petzing as New Offensive Coordinator After Morton Experiment Fails

The Story: The Detroit Lions have hired Drew Petzing as their offensive coordinator for the 2026 season. This move comes after a disappointing stint with John Morton, who was fired after a 9-8 season where head coach Dan Campbell ultimately took over play-calling duties. Petzing, formerly the offensive coordinator for the Arizona Cardinals, brings experience and a track record of both success and struggle, hoping to revitalize the Lions’ offense after it “got off track” in 2025.

Key Points:

  • Drew Petzing is the new offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions.
  • Petzing was previously the offensive coordinator for the Arizona Cardinals under Jonathan Gannon, who was fired after the 2025 season.
  • The Cardinals’ offense ranked among the top eight in 2024 but fell to 24th in 2025 due to injuries and a struggling run game.
  • John Morton, the previous OC, was fired after Campbell took over play-calling duties during the 2025 season.
  • The Lions’ offense boasts a strong core of players, including Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Sam LaPorta.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Lions are seeking stability and a proven play-caller to lead their offense.
  • Petzing’s success will depend on his ability to manage injuries and establish a balanced offensive attack.
  • Dan Campbell’s prior experience as interim play-caller suggests he will be closely involved in the offensive game plan.
  • The hiring of Petzing suggests the Lion’s front office saw that the team needed someone with experience and a proven track record to help elevate the offense after a disappointing finish to the 2025 season.

Impact Analysis:

  • Short-Term: The Lions’ offensive performance in 2026 will be heavily scrutinized, as Petzing’s arrival is expected to yield immediate improvements. The performance of Jared Goff and the utilization of key offensive weapons will be key indicators of his success.
  • Long-Term: If Petzing proves successful, he could become a long-term fixture in Detroit, potentially shaping the Lions’ offensive identity for years to come. Conversely, another disappointing season could lead to further coaching changes and set back the team’s Super Bowl aspirations.

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