The Detroit Lions are bolstering their coaching staff with a key addition from the college ranks. Iowa State assistant head coach and running backs coach Tyler Roehl will join Dan Campbell’s staff as an offensive assistant, as reported by CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz on February 11, 2025. Roehl brings a wealth of experience, having coached at North Dakota State and Iowa State, with a strong pedigree in offensive production.

National Championship Pedigree

Roehl, 39, has an impressive coaching background, particularly during his tenure at North Dakota State. From 2014 to 2023, he played a pivotal role in the Bison’s dominance, contributing to seven FCS National Championships. His roles included running backs coach, tight ends coach, and offensive coordinator. In 2023, under his leadership, North Dakota State had one of the most potent offenses in FCS, leading the nation in rushing yards (3,560), rushing touchdowns (47), and overall touchdowns (74). His offense consistently ranked among the top five in rushing and scoring efficiency.

In 2024, Roehl transitioned to Iowa State as the assistant head coach and running backs coach. He helped the Cyclones achieve an 11-3 record, earning a trip to the Big 12 championship game and securing a victory over Miami in the Pop-Tarts Bowl. His offensive acumen earned him recognition, making him the second Iowa State coordinator in two years to jump to the NFL.

Joining John Morton’s Offensive Staff

Roehl joins new offensive coordinator John Morton, who was hired from the Denver Broncos to replace Ben Johnson after Johnson took the Chicago Bears head coaching job. Morton, previously a senior offensive assistant with the Lions in 2022, returned to Detroit after spending a season as the Broncos’ passing game coordinator.

In addition to Roehl, the Lions have added former Stanford head coach David Shaw as their passing game coordinator and former NFL quarterback Bruce Gradkowski as an offensive assistant. Gradkowski recently served as the offensive coordinator for the St. Louis Battlehawks of the XFL/UFL.

From Player to Coach

A former standout running back, Roehl played at North Dakota State from 2004 to 2008. As a starter in 2007 and 2008, he rushed for 1,431 yards and 21 touchdowns in his junior year, followed by 1,053 yards and 13 touchdowns in his senior season. He briefly pursued an NFL career, signing with the Seattle Seahawks in 2009, but an ACL injury cut his professional aspirations short.

Roehl’s coaching journey began at Concordia College in 2010. He later coached at the high school level before returning to North Dakota State, where he climbed the ranks to become offensive coordinator. Now, he brings his expertise to the Detroit Lions, aiming to enhance their offensive firepower in 2025.