According to Mike Silver of NFL Media, Patriots DC Matt Patricia would be the “leading candidate” for Lions head coach position if they fire HC Jim Caldwell.
Patricia has come up a few times in connection to the Lions’ job, so this shouldn’t come as much of a surprise.
Alex Marvez of the Sporting News first mentioned that there has been speculation going around in league circles that Patricia could be headed to the Lions as a replacement to Caldwell. According to Marvez, Caldwell is not the only member of the Lions who could be gone in 2018, given that VP of player personnel Kyle O’Brien is emerging as potential GM candidate.
Patricia was linked to the Lions last year before Detroit elected to retain Caldwell and sign him to a one-year extension.
There are obvious ties between the Lions and Patricia, considering that GM Bob Quinn spent a number of years working together while they were in New England.
Patricia, 43, began his NFL coaching career as an offensive assistant for the Patriots back in 2004. He has held a number of position during his 14 years in New England including assistant offensive line coach, linebackers coach, and safeties coach before he was promoted to defensive coordinator in 2012.
This year, the Patriots’ defense ranks No. 29 in total allowed yards, No. 26 in rushing yards allowed and No. 30 in passing yards allowed and No. 6 in total points allowed.
We’ll have more regarding the Lions as the news is available.
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