Detroit Lions Announce 2026 Coaching Staff

New coordinators and assistants join head coach Dan Campbell's staff

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Detroit Lions have announced their coaching staff for the 2026 NFL season. The team has made several key hires, including Drew Petzing as offensive coordinator, Kelvin Sheppard as defensive coordinator, and Dave Fipp as special teams coordinator. Other notable additions include Scottie Montgomery as associate head coach/wide receivers, Jim O'Neil as assistant head coach/safeties, and Mike Kafka as pass game coordinator.

Why it matters

The Lions are looking to build on their success from the previous season and make a deep playoff run. The new coaching staff hires bring a wealth of experience and expertise that should help the team continue to improve on both sides of the ball.

The details

The Lions' 2026 coaching staff includes several experienced NFL coaches in key positions. Drew Petzing, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the New York Giants, will now lead the Lions' offense. Kelvin Sheppard, a former NFL linebacker, will coordinate the defense, while Dave Fipp, who has coached special teams for multiple teams, will oversee the kicking game. Other notable hires include Scottie Montgomery as associate head coach/wide receivers, Jim O'Neil as assistant head coach/safeties, and Mike Kafka as pass game coordinator.

  • The Detroit Lions announced their 2026 coaching staff on February 24, 2026.

The players

Dan Campbell

Head Coach of the Detroit Lions.

Drew Petzing

Offensive Coordinator for the Detroit Lions.

Kelvin Sheppard

Defensive Coordinator for the Detroit Lions.

Dave Fipp

Special Teams Coordinator for the Detroit Lions.

Mike Kafka

Pass Game Coordinator for the Detroit Lions.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited about the coaching staff we've assembled for the 2026 season. This group brings a wealth of experience and expertise that will help us continue to improve and compete at the highest level.”

— Dan Campbell, Head Coach, Detroit Lions (statenews.net)

What’s next

The Lions will begin their offseason program in the coming weeks as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

The Lions have made several key hires to their coaching staff, bringing in experienced coordinators and assistants to help the team build on their success from the previous season. The new staff should provide a boost to both the offense and defense as the Lions look to make a deep playoff run in 2026.