The Detroit Lions have hired Drew Petzing as their new offensive coordinator, a move that emphasizes a run-heavy, under-center offense fitting Jared Goff's strengths. Petzing, coming from the Arizona Cardinals, is known for his commitment to the run game and effective use of tight ends, aligning with the Lions' current offensive philosophy under Dan Campbell. While not the most dynamic hire, it promises consistency and a solid fit for the franchise.
The Detroit Lions have made a significant yet under-the-radar move by hiring Drew Petzing as their new offensive coordinator. This decision, announced by head coach Dan Campbell, was unexpected by many, including insiders and fans. Petzing, 38, joins the Lions from the Arizona Cardinals, where he served as offensive coordinator for the past three years.
Contrary to popular speculation, the Lions did not select more widely discussed candidates such as Mike McDaniel, Mike Kafka, Brian Daboll, Zack Robinson, or T. Martin. Instead, they chose Petzing, a name that flew under the radar but fits the Lions' offensive identity well.
Drew Petzing is known for his preference for an under-center offense and a strong commitment to the run game. During his tenure with the Cardinals, the team ranked among the top 10 rushing offenses in two of the three seasons he was coordinator. Notably, in 2024, the Cardinals were second in the league in rushing yards per attempt, averaging over five yards per carry with James Conner leading the ground attack.
Petzing also has a strong affinity for utilizing tight ends effectively. The Cardinals' offense heavily featured tight ends, particularly Trey McBride, who blossomed under Petzing's system. McBride's impressive stats include over 1,100 yards and five touchdowns in the most recent season, earning him first-team All-Pro honors. This emphasis on tight ends aligns well with the Lions' roster, especially with Sam LaPorta, who is expected to thrive under Petzing's scheme.
The Lions have been building an offense that prioritizes the run and uses 12 personnel (one running back, two tight ends) frequently. Petzing's style complements this approach perfectly. He prefers to have the quarterback under center rather than in shotgun formations, which suits Jared Goff's strengths as a quarterback.
While Petzing's offense may not be the most flashy or innovative, it offers consistency and a solid foundation for the Lions. This steadiness is crucial for a team looking to develop a balanced attack and maximize Goff's capabilities.
Some fans and analysts express a lukewarm reaction to the hire, hoping for a more dynamic or creative offensive mind. Petzing's tenure in Arizona was marked by some criticism regarding a lack of aggressiveness and creativity, especially during seasons when quarterback Kyler Murray was injured or unavailable.
Despite these concerns, Petzing's experience coaching Jacoby Brissett in Cleveland and managing the Cardinals' offense through challenging circumstances demonstrates his ability to adapt and maintain a functional offense.
With Petzing now in place, the next logical move for the Lions is to bring over the tight ends coach from Arizona to maintain continuity and further develop their tight end usage. This strategic staffing will help solidify the offensive identity and support the players best suited for this system.
The hiring of Drew Petzing as the Detroit Lions' offensive coordinator signals a commitment to a run-first, under-center offense that leverages tight ends effectively. While not the most headline-grabbing hire, Petzing fits the Lions' current philosophy and provides a stable environment for Jared Goff to succeed. Fans can expect a consistent, if not flashy, offensive approach that aligns with head coach Dan Campbell's vision for the team.
This move also highlights the Lions' willingness to think outside the box and make strategic hires that fit their long-term goals rather than chasing high-profile names. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how Petzing's offense shapes the Lions' performance and Goff's development as their quarterback.
