The Detroit Lions are in the midst of a critical offseason, with some unsettling news regarding key departures. This period is especially significant for the Lions, as the franchise undergoes major changes. While many players will remain with the team, the coaching staff is experiencing a complete overhaul, and it remains to be seen how these changes will affect the team in September.
Unfortunately, the team has faced a series of coaching exits, notably offensive coordinator Ben Johnson joining the Chicago Bears and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn moving to the New York Jets. Now, a key member of the front office is also leaving.
As Queen’s Song Goes, Another One Bites the Dust
On Friday, February 14, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Mike Martin, the Lions’ director of scouting advancement, is departing for a role as Notre Dame’s new general manager. The general manager position is a new concept in college football, reflecting the growing parallels between college and professional football due to the NIL and transfer portal. It’s a highly sought-after position as well.
“Notre Dame is finalizing a deal to hire Detroit Lions Director of Scouting Advancement Mike Martin as the school’s new general manager, per source,” Schefter tweeted. He added that Martin was part of the initial front office team responsible for rebuilding the Lions’ roster, and now Notre Dame’s head coach Marcus Freeman is bringing Martin on board to introduce an NFL-style model to their program.
Losing Martin, who was instrumental in rebuilding the Lions’ roster, is a setback for the team. However, with general manager Brad Holmes still leading the front office, there is a sense of reassurance moving forward.
Joshua Vowles of One Foot Down weighed in on the hiring, stating, “This move marks a different direction compared to keeping Chad Bowden or hiring James Blanchard.” He added that it seems Notre Dame’s approach will involve supplementing the GM role with additional staff to enhance scouting and player development.
Martin, who joined the Lions in 2021, played a crucial role in evaluating talent. Prior to his time in Detroit, he worked with the Carolina Panthers and Houston Texans.
There’s Hope for the Lions Despite Departures
Not all is lost for the Lions. After Aaron Glenn’s departure for the Jets, Lions linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard was promoted to defensive coordinator. Sheppard confirmed he had other job offers but chose to stay in Detroit. In an interview with Dan Miller of Fox 2, Sheppard explained that the trust and support from head coach Dan Campbell were key factors in his decision to remain with the team. He said it would have been nearly impossible to leave, no matter the opportunity.
Sheppard credited Campbell’s belief in him, which started when they first met in 2014 when Campbell was a player and Sheppard was coaching. This trust has continued into his coaching career.