The Lions Offensive Coordinator Mike Martz and Wide Receivers Coach Kippy Brown were both mentioned as candidates for recently available head coaching positions. Martz, who was mentioned as potential candidate for the jobs in Oakland and Miami, and Brown, who removed his name from consideration for the Grambling State University job, will both likely remain in Detroit for the 2007 season. Martz's name could resurface as a candidate as jobs become available, but his age and widely-perceived eccentricities may hinder his chances of being considered for any available positions,
The fact that Martz is probably staying, will have a major impact on the Lions future personnel decisions. The Lions are close to re-signing WR Mike Furrey, who would have already been re-signed had he and the Lions not disagreed over whether he should be paid as a number two receiver or not. The Lions will likely pursue Rams free agent WR Kevin Curtis as an outside receiver and move Furrey to the slot, if they are to sign Curtis. Martz's presence may also have an influence on whether the Lions draft an offensive skill player or offensive linemen with their upcoming 2007 draft pick.
The Lions are looking to replace recently fired Offensive Line coach Larry Beightol, who reportedly had numerous personality conflicts with Mike Martz. One name that has surfaced as a potential replacement is UCLA Offensive Line Coach Jim Colletto. The Lions may investigate other potential candidates while scouting prospects at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama this week. One intriguing candidate could be Steelers Offensive Line coach Russ Grimm, who was recently passed over for the Steelers head coaching job. Grimm interviewed for the vacant Lions head coaching position last year, but was not awarded the job. One school of thought is that Team President Matt Millen would offer his former Redskins teammate a position. That being said, one has to wonder whether he and Martz would see eye-to-eye on offensive line responsibilities, since Martz's pass-heavy scheme is drastically different from the smashmouth, run-first variety that the Steelers have subscribed to.
