Detroit Lions Weblog

Lions Top Priority Must Become Retaining Martz

The Lions are beginning to develop a consistently potent offense that forces it’s opponents to take notice.  The chief engineeer behind that offense, Mike Martz, already has been recognized throughout the league as one of it’s more innovative minds.   This season’s performance by the Lions offense should be considered the crowning achievement of Martz’s exemplary career, when you consider how bad the Lions offense has been in the past.

With Martz’s leaguewide high esteem in mind, the Lions improved offensive performance does not come without unfortunate consequences.   Martz’s name will likely move to the top of several team’s wish lists as a future head coaching candidate.  Martz’s previously stated desire to return to the position only increases the likelihood that his potential candidacies will gain some steam as the season progresses.

The Lions currently employ several members of it’s offensive staff that have a great deal of experience within Martz’s offensive system.   That being said, Martz’s ability to game plan and utilize his personnel to orchestrate this offense should not be undervalued, though.   Their are no immediate successors to the throne on hand, so the Lions must make it a priority to retain Martz.

One clear cut future option for Martz to become head coach is the Arizona Cardinals.   The Cards feature an enviably talented cadre of young offensive skill players who have no discernible performance limits, if they were able to be guided by someone like Martz.  The Cards Head Coach Denny Green appears to be a resident lame duck, and their would be no better landing spot for Martz.   The immediate challenge for the Lions is to convince Martz that his work in Detroit is yet unfinished.