Lions Bring Back Fan-Favorite Ex-Lineman as New Assistant Coach

Dan Skipper, who retired after the 2025 season, will rejoin the franchise in a coaching role.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Detroit Lions are reportedly hiring former offensive lineman Dan Skipper as a new assistant coach on their staff. Skipper, a fan favorite during his playing days with the Lions from 2017-2025, retired after last season but will now return to the team in a coaching capacity.

Why it matters

Skipper was a well-liked player among Lions fans, known for his viral video of puking on the sideline and his involvement in a controversial finish against the Cowboys in 2023. His return to the franchise in a coaching role will likely be welcomed by the team's supporters.

The details

According to a report from CBS Sports' Rachel Hopmayer, the exact role Skipper will have on the Lions' coaching staff is currently unclear. However, the team recently promoted assistant offensive line coach Steve Oliver to tight ends coach, leaving a vacancy on the offensive line that Skipper could potentially fill.

  • Skipper retired from playing after the 2025 NFL season.
  • The Lions hired Skipper as a new assistant coach in February 2026.

The players

Dan Skipper

A former offensive lineman who played for the Detroit Lions from 2017-2025 and is now rejoining the team as a new assistant coach.

Steve Oliver

The Lions' former assistant offensive line coach who was recently promoted to tight ends coach, leaving a vacancy on the offensive line that Skipper could potentially fill.

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What they’re saying

“Good morning: #Lions fan favorite and recently retired OL Dan Skipper has been hired to Detroit's coaching staff. He'll be molding the next jumbo TEs in no time.”

— Rachel Hopmayer, CBS Sports Reporter (CBS Sports)

What’s next

The Lions will need to officially announce Skipper's new coaching role and provide more details on his specific responsibilities with the team.

The takeaway

Skipper's return to the Lions organization in a coaching capacity is a feel-good story for the team's fanbase, as they welcome back a player who was a fan favorite during his playing days. His experience and rapport with the team could make him a valuable addition to the coaching staff.