The Detroit Lions could soon lose two key coordinators to head coaching opportunities this offseason, but there's one coordinator who isn't looking to move up the coaching ladder anytime soon. Special teams coordinator Dave Fipp made it clear that he's not pryingin becoming a head coach, now or ever. While Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn are eyeing potential head coaching roles—both having interviewed for several jobs recently—Fipp's heart lies elsewhere.
"I’m not interested in being a head coach," Fipp shared during a recent press conference. "What I truly love is working with the players, especially in the meeting room. There's something magical about seeing that room filled with players. It's where I feel most at home. As a special teams coach, I have the unique opportunity to interact with every player on the team, across offense and defense, which is something I deeply enjoy. The variety keeps things exciting for me, and it’s my passion to coach them all."
Interestingly, Fipp's perspective on coaching has evolved over the years. Early in his coaching career, he had aspirations of becoming a head coach. But after observing the challenges and immense responsibilities that come with the position, his focus shifted. The weight of the head coach's role made him realize that his true joy comes from working directly with players and being involved in various aspects of the game.
That’s not to say that Fipp doesn't see the potential in other special teams coordinators to transition into head coaching roles. In fact, he believes many coordinators in this field have the necessary qualities to lead a team. However, they often go overlooked for these prestigious positions. "Special teams coaches are dynamic leaders," Fipp said. "They excel in understanding all phases of the game. They relate to different personalities, motivate players, and handle the pressure of managing an entire unit. Leadership is what matters most. It’s not about calling a specific play or mastering one side of the ball. It’s about managing the locker room, inspiring players, and keeping the team focused."
Fipp’s take on leadership challenges the conventional thinking often seen in NFL coaching circles. Instead of looking for the next coach to fit a pre-existing mold, he advocates for focusing on the best leaders—those who can motivate and manage the complex dynamics of an NFL locker room. He believes that the search for the ideal head coach should transcend the formulaic approach of hiring someone who fits past successful models.
Switching gears to the field, one of the most intriguing developments for the Lions this week is the return of running back David Montgomery. After missing three games due to a sprained MCL, Montgomery is slated to return to action on Saturday. But exactly how he'll fit into the Lions' backfield rotation is still uncertain. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson was quick to acknowledge that Montgomery's role is "to be determined." This is a pivotal decision, given the success rookie Jahmyr Gibbs has had in Montgomery’s absence.
"Gibbs has really taken advantage of the opportunity," Johnson said. "He’s been on fire recently, and David is coming back with the right mindset to contribute again. It’s been great to see him practicing hard, but we’ll need to see how things play out in the next couple of days before we finalize our plans."
Before his injury, Montgomery had been a reliable contributor, averaging 13.2 carries and 55.4 rushing yards per game over the first 14 contests of the season. In that same span, Gibbs had averaged 13.3 carries for 74.8 yards per game. With Montgomery back, the team has a tough decision to make regarding the backfield split. After all, Gibbs has proven that he can handle the load, averaging 21.3 carries and 121.7 yards in the three games without Montgomery.
Meanwhile, the Lions' defense has its hands full preparing for one of the league’s top wide receivers—Terry McLaurin of the Washington Commanders. McLaurin has been on a tear this season, securing his fifth consecutive 1,000-yard receiving season and setting a career-high with 13 touchdowns. Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn took time to praise the sixth-year receiver, highlighting his competitiveness and toughness. "Terry is as competitive as they come," Glenn said. "He’s always been known for his ability to fight for 50-50 balls, despite not having the biggest frame at 6 feet tall. But it’s not just his physical attributes that stand out. It's his mentality—his willingness to block, go across the middle, take hits, and keep getting back up. He’s a gamer, just like Amon-Ra St. Brown."
McLaurin’s ability to impact the game in a variety of ways is something that’s hard to ignore. Glenn’s admiration for the wideout is evident, and it’s clear that McLaurin is one of the toughest and most competitive players in the league.
The Lions are preparing for a big showdown this Saturday, one that pits the NFL's top two special teams units against each other. According to Fipp’s metrics, the Commanders and Lions have been the best in special teams play this season. The Lions rank second, just behind Washington, who sits at No. 1.
Fipp explained that his analysis of special teams performance factors in everything from kick and punt coverage to return yards, field goals, and takeaways. It’s a comprehensive evaluation that takes into account field position and every aspect of special teams play. While the Commanders have been solid in most areas, they’ve allowed two kick-return touchdowns this season. Additionally, Washington has allowed 73 kick returns—far more than any other team in the league. In comparison, the Lions have allowed just 24 returns.
"We’re ready for it," Fipp said. "It’s going to be a great test for both teams. Special teams can be a game-changer, and we’re eager to see what we can do against one of the league’s best units."
Saturday’s game will be an exciting matchup for fans, showcasing not just standout players like McLaurin, but also the key coaches and special teams units that play such a pivotal role in the outcome of games. For Fipp, this is what makes the job so rewarding: the variety, the challenge, and the opportunity to work with players in all phases of the game.
As the Lions look to secure another win, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on their return game, with both teams vying for supremacy in the special teams battle. With Montgomery returning, the backfield decisions could shape the outcome of the game, but special teams will play an equally critical role in determining who comes out on top.
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