After making an effort to hire the New Orleans Saints defensive backs, coach Aaron Glenn set out to be the next defensive coordinator – a move that hasn’t been finalized, but the Lions are. “The clear favorite” according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler – the Detroit Lions are now running to a potential offensive coordinator.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports that the Lions interviewed Baltimore Ravens quarterback coach James Urban on Wednesday for their offensive coordinator role.
Urban began his NFL coaching career in 2004 with the Philadelphia Eagles under then-coach Andy Reid. He started out as the head coach’s Eagles assistant in 2004-06, then moved into an offensive assistant and quality control role in 2007-2008, eventually earning a quarterback coaching role in 2009-10 – working with quarterbacks Donovan McNabb and Michael. Vick.
In 2011, he joined Marvin Lewis’ Cincinnati Bengals as a coach for wide receivers and held that role for the next seven years. During the 2012-15 seasons, he worked directly with Lions recipients Marvin Jones Jr. and Mohamad Sanu.
In 2018, Urban joined John Harbaugh’s Ravens as their QB coach and was immediately tasked with coaching then-rookie Lamar Jackson. Jackson’s technique and footwork were considered raw when he entered the league, and under Urban’s tutelage, he helped the young signaller add layers to his overall game. In 2019, Jackson was the league’s MVP.
Loved throughout the league, Urban is seen as a highly intelligent coach who can communicate his message effectively. His connections with three established head coaches and track record of developing players is something that certainly appeals to the Lions.