Detroit Lions Weblog

DeMulling signed, Johnny Holland promoted to Linebackers coach, Phil Snow named Defensive Assistant

The Lions may have made their most key addition of the off-season. Even though the off-season free agent signing whose name most likely will take up the highest amount of column inches is Jeff Garcia, Rick DeMulling, Kenoy Kennedy, and Marcus Pollard will all probably have a more immediate impact on any future success that will be enjoyed by the Lions.

DeMulling solidifies an offensive line which suffered from poor play at guard for most of the season. If Damien Woody returns in shape, the only question mark remains is who will emerge to replace Stockar McDougle at tackle among Sean Bubin, Victor Rogers, and Kelly Butler. There is no question, that if they can get at least solid play from the remaining tackle slot, that Kevin Jones will have even more space in which to operate and be able to thrive for an entire season if he can remain healthy. With the recent free agent additions, it appears that the positions that remain which may need upgrading are: 3rd receiver/slot receiver, Defensive End, and if neither Marcus Bell or Kelvin Pritchett return, DT. I still would like to see the Lions find another CB to add to the rotation. Last season’s disappointing performance by Fernando Bryant and Andre Goodman should be a major cause for concern at that position, in my opinion. Factoring in the additions of Charles Rogers’ and Boss Bailey’s impending a healthy return, the Lions will be fielding a playoff quality roster and MUST perform at that level next season.

Johnny Holland was recently promoted from defensive assistant to linebackers coach. He replaces the departed Richard Smith, who is now Miami’s Defensive Coordinator. Phil Snow (no relation to WWE’s Al Snow) will assume the role of Defensive Assistant. It is hard to gauge the impact either of them will have on the defense, but it appears that Holland will have some good young talent to work with the healthy return of Boss Bailey, James “Dirty” Davis, Earl Holmes, Teddy Lehman, and Alex Lewis. Should the Lions make a first round defensive selection in the upcoming draft, Holland and Snow’s roles will each become even more important.