Detroit Lions Hire Drew Petzing to Lead Offense

The Detroit Lions have appointed Drew Petzing as their offensive coordinator for the upcoming season. Petzing joins a staff that has seen rapid turnover, most recently with the dismissal of former coordinator Ben Johnson after a mid-season loss of play-calling duties. The move follows head coach Dan Campbell’s expressed desire for a stable, high-powered offensive system.

Newsweek

Lions head coach Dan Campbell has experienced several short-lived offensive leaders. Anthony Lynn, initially selected as the first choice, was demoted after eight games without a win and the team finished the 2021 campaign with a 3-13-1 record. Ben Johnson, praised for revitalizing the offense, was stripped of play-calling duties midway through the most recent season and later terminated, marking his second such removal in his career. The hiring of Petzing is intended to break this pattern and provide continuity.

Newsweek

The Lions enter the new season with a strong passing core. Quarterback Jared Goff has ranked in the NFL’s top five for single-season passing yards (4,575 in 2023, 4,629 in 2024, and 4,564 in 2025) and touchdown passes (30, 37, and 34 respectively). Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown accumulated 351 receptions over the same three-year span, second only to Ja’Marr Chase’s 352. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs amassed 5,029 yards from scrimmage and 49 touchdowns across his three seasons, positioning him as a leading offensive weapon. The departure of former running back David Montgomery further concentrates touches on Gibbs.

Newsweek

Petzing’s background includes recent stints as offensive coordinator for the Arizona Cardinals (2023-2025) and prior roles with the Cleveland Browns and Minnesota Vikings. The Lions’ built-in passing attack, combined with Gibbs’s dynamic rushing ability, gives Petzing a platform to maximize existing talent. If the offensive scheme functions as intended, Detroit could see a more balanced and potent attack in the forthcoming season.

Newsweek