Pros and Cons of Lions Hiring David Blough as OC
The Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator search has taken an unexpected turn, with a familiar name quietly entering the conversation: former Lions quarterback David Blough. While the idea is intriguing on the surface, a deeper look raises serious questions about whether Detroit should even consider him for such a critical role.
Blough, who spent multiple seasons in Detroit as a backup and occasional starter, has moved quickly into coaching since his playing career ended. After one season as Washington’s assistant quarterbacks coach, he was elevated to interim quarterbacks coach late in the 2025 season. That rapid rise has sparked speculation about his future, including whispers tying him to Detroit’s OC vacancy following John Morton’s dismissal.
Morton was fired after just one season, having already lost play-calling duties midway through the year. The Lions are now looking for stability and proven leadership on offense—something Blough simply doesn’t bring yet. While he was well-respected as a player and praised by Dan Campbell for his intelligence, communication, and leadership, his on-field résumé as a quarterback was modest, and his coaching résumé is still extremely thin.
Blough has never called plays at any level, and he’s only two years into his NFL coaching career. While he played a role in the development of Washington quarterback Jayden Daniels, that alone doesn’t justify handing him control of an NFL offense. At this stage, Blough projects more naturally as a passing game coordinator or position coach, not the architect of an entire offense.
There’s also the concern that if Blough were hired, Campbell would continue calling plays himself. That defeats the purpose of bringing in a new offensive coordinator altogether. Detroit’s head coach needs to step back from play-calling in 2026 and focus on leadership, game management, and motivation—areas where he excels most.
If the Lions are serious about taking the next step, general manager Brad Holmes should prioritize an experienced, proven play-caller. Blough may have a future as an offensive coordinator one day, but that day shouldn’t be in Detroit—at least not yet.
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