A Familiar Face Returns: David Shaw Joins Detroit Lions
David Shaw, the former Stanford University head coach, is making a significant comeback to the professional ranks as he steps into a new role with the Detroit Lions. On Tuesday, the franchise officially announced Shaw as their passing game coordinator for the 2025 season. This marks the first time Shaw has coached in the NFL since 2005 and his first coaching position since he abruptly resigned from Stanford at the end of the 2022 season. Known for his strategic acumen and leadership, Shaw’s addition to the Lions’ coaching staff is a move that could bring a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to the team.
A Stellar College Coaching Career
Shaw’s tenure at Stanford was nothing short of impressive. Over 12 seasons as the head coach, he led the Cardinal to a remarkable 96-54 record, solidifying his reputation as one of the most successful coaches in the program’s history. Stanford enjoyed a golden era under Shaw, winning at least 10 games in five of his first six seasons. His teams were known for their disciplined play, strong defense, and strategic offensive schemes. Shaw’s ability to develop players and coordinate a cohesive team effort earned him respect not only at Stanford but across the collegiate football landscape. However, the latter part of his tenure saw a significant decline, with the Cardinal winning only 14 games after a 9-4 record in 2018. The team’s struggles culminated in a 3-9 season in 2021 and 2022, leading to his unexpected departure.
A Step Back and a Fresh Start
Following his resignation, Shaw took a year off from coaching in 2023, allowing him time to reflect and recharge. He then made a surprising move in 2024, joining the Denver Broncos as a personnel executive. This front office role provided Shaw with valuable insights into the NFL’s operations and player acquisition processes, further enriching his coaching toolkit. His decision to re-enter the coaching world with the Lions is seen as a natural progression, given his background and the unique challenges the NFL presents. The Lions, under head coach Dan Campbell, are focused on rebuilding and Shaw’s expertise could be crucial in fortifying their passing game, a key component of NFL success.
Exploring New Horizons
Shaw’s path to the Lions is a circuitous one, reflecting his deep roots in the game of football. His last NFL coaching job was with the Baltimore Ravens, where he served as the wide receivers coach for three seasons and the quarterbacks coach for two. These experiences, coupled with his work under Jim Harbaugh at San Diego and Stanford, have prepared him for the fast-paced and highly competitive NFL environment. Harbaugh, now the head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers, played a pivotal role in Shaw’s early NFL career, providing him with the groundwork and mentorship that would shape his future as a coach.
A Talented Coaching Staff in Detroit
Shaw is not the only former college head coach on Dan Campbell’s staff in Detroit. Scottie Montgomery, who previously led East Carolina, joins the Lions as the assistant head coach and wide receivers coach. Montgomery had a successful 2024 season in Detroit, serving as the assistant head coach and running backs coach. The Lions’ coaching staff also includes John Morton, who takes over as the offensive coordinator after the departure of Ben Johnson, and Tashard Choice, a former NFL running back and three-year running backs coach at Texas. Choice brings a dynamic and player-centric approach to his new role, drawing on his experiences at Georgia Tech and Texas.
Looking Forward: The 2025 Season and Beyond
As the 2025 season approaches, the Detroit Lions are positioned for significant improvement with the addition of experienced coaches like David Shaw. Shaw’s background in both college and professional football, his strategic mind, and his ability to mentor young talent make him a valuable asset to the team. His role in shaping the passing game could be particularly crucial, as the Lions look to enhance their offensive capabilities and competitiveness. With a roster of coaches who bring diverse experiences and a commitment to excellence, the Lions are poised to make strides in the coming season, and Shaw’s return to the NFL is a promising sign for the franchise’s future.
