The Lions announced the newest member of Dan Campbell’s staff is Bruce Gradowski , a former NFL quarterback and UFL offensive coordinator. Gradowski spent the past two seasons as the offensive coordinator of the St. Louis Battlehawks.
Dan Campbell Hires UFL Coach For Lions Staff
A veteran NFL quarterback before he began coaching, Gradowski was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the sixth round of the 2006 draft. Nicknamed “The Great Gradowski” as a rookie, he took over as starter in week 5 following an injury to Chris Simms. Although Gradowski went 3-8 that season, he set an NFL record for the most consecutive passes between first and second interceptions. He would throw another 200 passes before his second pick.
After being waived in 2008 by the Buccaneers, Gradowski spent the next eight years on several NFL rosters playing for the Cleveland Browns, Oakland Raiders, Cincinnati Bengals, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
UFL Coaching Success Led to NFL Offer
Under Gradowski’s leadership as their OC and play-caller, St. Louis ranked as one of the best in the UFL. Despite playing in only eight games in 2024, Battlehawks quarterback A.J. McCarron ranked third in the UFL with 1,581 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and four interceptions. Running back Jacob Saylors earned All-UFL honors. Second only to quarterback Adrian Martinez in rushing, he was number one in the UFL among running backs for rushing yards. Tying for second with the most rushing touchdowns, Saylors added 152 yards on 24 catches with three touchdowns.
Besides Saylors, Gradowski’s high-powered offense featured three other All-UFL team members. Wide receiver Hakeem Butler , offensive tackle Jaryd Jones-Smith, and center Mike Panasiuk were named to the UFL honors team.
Lions’ New Offensive Staff
Gradowski’s extensive NFL quarterback experience and coaching expertise make him a valuable addition to Campbell’s newly rebuilt offensive staff. He joins a team that’s comprised of both new hires and veteran staff. He’ll work closely with Campbell’s new offensive coordinator John Morton. Returning offensive staff members include running backs coach Scottie Montgomery , offensive line coach Hank Fraley, and quarterback coach Mark Brunell. Another new hire is NFL veteran wide receiver David Shaw. Hired to be the Lions’ passing game coordinator, Shaw brings first-hand knowledge from playing in the NFL and a wealth of coaching and front-office experience.
Despite the number of Lions coaches poached by other NFL teams, Campbell has rebuilt an enviable new staff. “Gambling Dan” will continue to play a big role in the Lions’ playcalling. The team will still go for it on fourth downs, and catch opponents off guard with well-disguised trick plays. Capitalizing on quarterback Jared Goff’s precision throws and the NFL’s best rushing duo in David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, the Lions will be among the NFL’s most powerful offenses.
Campbell’s first UFL acquisition, kicker Jake Bates proved to be a terrific addition to his offense. As his latest UFL staffing acquisition, Gradowski looks just as promising.
Main Photo: Junfu Han-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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