The Detroit Lions are heading into a crucial offseason—one of the most significant in franchise history. While much of the team’s roster remains intact, the coaching staff is undergoing major changes, making it intriguing to see how things unfold by September.
Unfortunately, the Lions have experienced a wave of departures among their coaching staff and front office. Offensive coordinator has left for the Chicago Bears, while defensive coordinator has taken the head coaching job with the New York Jets. Now, the front office has lost another key figure.
Another Departure in Detroit
On February 14, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Mike Martin, the Lions’ director of scouting advancement, is leaving the organization to become Notre Dame’s general manager. This role is becoming increasingly important in college football, given the impact of NIL and the transfer portal, which have made the college game resemble the NFL.
“Notre Dame is finalizing a deal to hire Detroit Lions Director of Scouting Advancement Mike Martin as the school’s new general manager, per source,” Schefter posted on X. He noted that Martin was instrumental in rebuilding the Lions’ roster and that Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman is bringing him in to implement an NFL-style structure.
Losing a key front-office figure who played a role in the Lions’ resurgence is a setback. However, general manager Brad Holmes remains at the helm, providing continuity and stability.
Joshua Vowles of One Foot Down weighed in on the hire, stating, “This is a much different direction than keeping Chad Bowden on staff or even hiring James Blanchard.” He added that Notre Dame’s approach to the GM position appears to involve additional personnel to enhance scouting and player development.
Martin, who joined the Lions in 2021 as one of Holmes’ first major hires, played a vital role in talent evaluation. He previously worked for the Carolina Panthers and Houston Texans.
z
Signs of Stability
Despite the departures, not everyone is leaving. Following Glenn’s exit, Lions linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard was promoted to defensive coordinator.
Sheppard revealed in an interview with Dan Miller of Fox 2 that he had opportunities elsewhere but chose to stay in Detroit, citing head coach Dan Campbell’s trust and support as a major factor.
“The reason I chose to stay here over other opportunities is Dan,” Sheppard said. “It would have been almost impossible to take another job, no matter what.”
He added that Campbell’s belief in him dates back to 2014, when they first met as player and coach, and has continued into his coaching career.
While the Lions have experienced significant staff turnover, the team’s foundation remains strong as they head into an important offseason.