The Detroit Lions face a challenging task of building a competitive roster in an NFC that’s becoming tougher every year, and head coach Dan Campbell has the added pressure of replacing several key coaches, including both coordinators.
Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who was pivotal in creating the most exciting offense in the league, left to join the Chicago Bears and work with Caleb Williams. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, praised for his leadership, has taken over as head coach for the New York Jets.
After Johnson recruited wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle El, Scottie Montgomery was promoted to assistant head coach and wide receivers coach. Tashard Choice, who spent the last six years coaching running backs at Georgia Tech and Texas, now takes over the Lions’ backfield.
Choice has already garnered strong praise from former players. At the NFL Combine, former Texas running back Jaydon Blue lauded Choice as a “genius” when it comes to the running back position, also highlighting his leadership off the field.
These hires are showing that Campbell isn’t merely a beneficiary of Ben Johnson’s success, as he’s capable of replacing key figures who get hired away.
Fans may remember Choice from his playing days, as the undrafted free agent amassed 1,579 yards and 10 touchdowns over five seasons with the Cowboys and Bills.
Choice’s coaching background, especially working with Pro Bowl star Bijan Robinson, likely made him appealing to the Lions. His connection with Jahmyr Gibbs, having coached him at Georgia Tech, could also have played a role in the hire. If Choice helped Gibbs thrive in college, he may be poised to elevate his game further in the NFL.
Although the Lions’ passing game received much attention, the team’s foundation was built around the dynamic duo of Gibbs and David Montgomery in the backfield. Replacing Johnson will be difficult, but Choice could help maintain a strong ground game while new offensive coordinator John Morton keeps Jared Goff in sync.
Campbell’s true test will come in demonstrating that his success with Johnson and Glenn wasn’t merely luck. The growing support for Choice might signal that Campbell has a solid plan for the future.