A day after the Detroit Lions learned that defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson will most likely return in 2024, two other coaches who were interviewing elsewhere may also return.
Pass game coordinator Tanner Engstrand and wide receiver coach Antwaan Randle El both interviewed for the Buccaneers offensive coordinator position this year, but the Bucs have elected to hire Kentucky offensive coordinator and quarterback coach Liam Coen instead, according to multiple reports.
While numerous other coordinator positions remain open, only the Seattle Seahawks have showed interest in a Lions coach. According to Albert Breer, they have sought an interview with Engstrand for the position of offensive coordinator. Engstrand interviewed for the New England Patriots’ offensive coordinator position, but the Pats picked former Brown offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt instead.
Engstrand has been with the Lions since 2020, gradually progressing from offensive assistant to tight ends coach to passing game coordinator this season. Quarterback Jared Goff emphasized how important Engstrand has been to his progress this season.
“He’s been great and brings different ideas to Ben (Johnson), different thoughts,” Goff said during the season. “Instead of overwhelming Ben with questions, I can ask him questions he can answer. Tanner has been really helpful to me in dealing with some of those issues. I had him in the quarterback room my first year, and he’s moved around the facility a few times, but he’s doing an excellent job.”
Randle El is slated to return for his fourth season as the Lions’ wide receivers coach. Under his instruction, All-Pro Amon-Ra St. Brown has advanced quickly, while Jameson Williams has steadily improved.
