The Detroit Lions are considering a notable name in their search for a new offensive coordinator: Zac Robinson. A rising star in the coaching world, Robinson’s connections with Lions quarterback Jared Goff and his experience under the esteemed Sean McVay in Los Angeles make him an intriguing option.
Robinson’s five years with the Rams saw him closely involved with the team’s quarterbacks, culminating in his role as passing game coordinator during the 2022 and 2023 seasons. His familiarity with Goff, who began his career with the Rams, creates a valuable synergy that the Lions are looking to maintain. This focus on continuity and maximizing Goff’s strengths is crucial for the Lions as they aim to build a successful offense.
In addition to his time in Los Angeles, Robinson also gained play-calling experience in Atlanta as the Falcons’ offensive coordinator under Raheem Morris. Over the past two seasons, he has been instrumental in developing a run-heavy offense, where Pro Bowl running back Bijan Robinson flourished, earning All-Pro honors in 2025. This experience aligns well with the Lions’ emphasis on a powerful running game, particularly with standout Jahmyr Gibbs, who possesses similar qualities to Robinson.
Robinson’s background as a former NFL quarterback, including a stint in Detroit, along with his analytical insights from his early career at Pro Football Focus, positions him as a coach who can effectively combine data-driven strategies with real-game scenarios.
However, despite his promising credentials, there are concerns about Robinson’s suitability as the Lions’ offensive coordinator. Notably, his oversight led to regression in quarterback Michael Penix Jr.’s performance this past season, and the Falcons ranked 24th in scoring despite having a talented player like Bijan Robinson in the backfield. With the Lions aiming for a playoff return in 2026, struggles with offensive production could prove detrimental.
While Robinson should be a serious contender for the offensive coordinator job, the suggestion is that he may not be the top choice for the position. Other candidates, such as former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel and former New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka, are seen as potentially stronger options.
The ongoing search for the Lions’ next offensive coordinator reflects the team’s commitment to building a competitive roster in the coming seasons as they work toward a successful 2026 campaign.