Former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel is a popular candidate for a ton of coaching vacancies this cycle. Not only has he interviewed for the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator position, but this week, he’ll complete interviews with the Browns, Falcons, Titans, and Ravens for their head coaching position. He’s also reportedly interviewing for the Buccaneers’ offensive coordinator position, as well.
For those hoping McDaniel becomes the Lions’ next offensive play-caller, that’s a daunting list of big opportunities for the 42-year-old coach. And with an opportunity to jump right back into a head coaching position, McDaniel may not choose a lesser offensive coordinator position.
… but don’t be too sure.
That’s because Greg Auman, the FOX Sports reporter for the NFC South, is reporting that McDaniel would actually prefer a good offensive coordinator opportunity over a less-than-ideal head coaching job.
“He would consider a great OC opportunity better than a not-great head coaching vacancy,” Auman tweeted on Wednesday. He followed up the tweet by confirming to a replier that this was a sourced statement, not his own opinion.
There are currently nine head coaching vacancies. Some would certainly be considered “great” opportunities (Ravens, Steelers), while others (Browns, Cardinals) not so much. It’s less clear what McDaniel would think of some of those other opportunities, like the Titans and Falcons jobs he’s reportedly interviewing for.
One thing seems pretty certain, though. The Lions’ opportunity certainly seems appealing. While it’s true Lions coach Dan Campbell has fired two former offensive coordinators after just a single year, the other one parlayed his success into a head coaching job. Additionally, McDaniel would have a turn-key type of situation in Detroit, with an established quarterback, running back, wide receiver tandem, and tight end all at his disposal for immediate success.
Obviously, McDaniel is going to weigh all of his options—and see what offers he actually gets—before making a decision, but this news should certainly be considered positive if you want McDaniel to land in Detroit.
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