As of February 15, 2025, the Detroit Lions have not officially hired Todd Monken as their new offensive coordinator. However, recent developments indicate that the team is actively pursuing Monken for the position.
**Background and Recent Developments**
The Lions’ previous offensive coordinator, Ben Johnson, accepted the head coaching position with the Chicago Bears in January 2025, leaving a vacancy in Detroit’s coaching staff. In response, the Lions have expressed interest in Todd Monken, the Baltimore Ravens’ offensive coordinator since 2023. Monken has been instrumental in revitalizing the Ravens’ offense, leading them to a #5 overall ranking in 2023 and a #2 ranking in 2024. citeturn0search6
Reports from late January 2025 suggest that Monken is set to interview for the Lions’ offensive coordinator position. citeturn0search1 This move aligns with the Lions’ objective to maintain an innovative and dynamic offensive strategy, building upon the foundation established by Johnson.
**Todd Monken’s Coaching Profile**
Todd Monken brings a wealth of experience to the table, with a coaching career spanning over two decades. Before his tenure with the Ravens, Monken served as the offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Cleveland Browns. His offensive schemes are known for their adaptability and emphasis on maximizing player strengths, which has consistently resulted in high-performing units.
**Potential Impact on the Detroit Lions**
Should the Lions successfully secure Monken as their offensive coordinator, several potential benefits could emerge:
– **Offensive Continuity**: Monken’s offensive philosophy aligns with the Lions’ existing approach, which could facilitate a smooth transition and minimize disruptions.
– **Player Development**: Monken has a proven track record of enhancing player performance, which could be particularly advantageous for the Lions’ young talents.
– **Strategic Innovation**: His experience and creative play-calling could introduce new dimensions to the Lions’ offensive playbook, making the team more competitive in various game situations.
**Considerations and Next Steps**
While the prospect of hiring Monken is promising, the Lions must navigate several considerations:
– **Competition**: Other NFL teams, such as the Las Vegas Raiders, have also shown interest in Monken for head coaching roles. citeturn0search6 The Lions will need to present a compelling offer to secure his services.
– **Contractual Obligations**: Monken’s current contract with the Ravens may involve clauses that could affect his availability. The Lions’ management will need to address these aspects during negotiations.
– **Timeline**: With the NFL offseason progressing, the Lions aim to finalize their coaching staff promptly to prepare for the upcoming season. Timely negotiations will be crucial to ensure a seamless integration of the new offensive coordinator.
In conclusion, while Todd Monken has not been officially appointed as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator as of mid-February 2025, the ongoing discussions and interviews indicate a strong mutual interest. Securing Monken could provide the Lions with a strategic advantage, bolstering their offensive capabilities for the forthcoming season.
