In a move few saw coming, former Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing has just been announced as the Detroit Lions’ new OC. A former DB from Middlebury College, Petzing previously worked for the Minnesota Vikings and the Cleveland Browns.
Drew Petzing Hired As the Detroit Lions’ Offensive Coordinator
While Petzing’s hiring was a surprise, given some of the big-name candidates such as Mike McDaniels and Mike Kafka, he does fit the bill for what the Lions are looking for right now in the way of an experienced play caller. In addition to being the offensive coordinator for Kyler Murray, Petzing was the quarterbacks coach who helped develop Kirk Cousins in Minnesota and both Deshaun Watson and Jacoby Brissett in Cleveland.
Petzing, An Impressive Offensive Resume
Hired by the Cardinals as OC in 2023 as part of Jonathan Gannon’s staff, Petzing previously held a variety of position coaching roles. In addition to serving as the quarterbacks coach, he’s also coached tight ends and wide receivers.
In 2024, Murray recorded more than 3,800 yards passing, while tight end Trey McBride earned 111 receptions for 1,146 yards. During his tenure in Cleveland, Petzing also spent time as the wide receivers coach. Under his coaching, Stefon Diggs had one of his best years, recording 63 catches for 1,130 yards.
Perhaps more importantly, Petzing brings a strong resume with the ground game with the Cardinals. In 2023, the Cardinals’ offense placed 4th in the NFL with 2,365 rushing yards. In 2024, James Conne r and the Cardinals rushed for a combined 2,451 yards with 18 touchdowns. The Cardinals established a franchise record of 5.29 yards per carry.
Given his experience with running a successful ground campaign, Petzing will hopefully be able to recreate the success Detroit previously experienced with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery as the two-headed monster that became the NFL’s top running back duo.
Petzing, Inherits A Talented Roster
Petzing brings a wealth of offensive knowledge and the offense-minded play-calling expertise the Lions are seeking. He brings credibility and should inspire the locker room with his vision and experience.
He inherits a wealth of talent on the Lions roster, with Jared Goff, an MVP-caliber quarterback, and the triple threat of Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Sam LaPorta. Rookie Isaac TeSlaa earned his draft pick status this year and will only continue to improve.
Now, with the challenge of hiring the Lions offensive coordinator crossed off the to-do list, Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell can focus on their next priority as they try to negotiate extensions with free agent players amid a severely bloated salary cap.