Goff told reporters at the Pro Bowl Games that he’s excited about Petzing, noting he’s been in contact with him and has been impressed by his intelligence, clarity, and ability to communicate. Petzing arrives in Detroit after three seasons as the Arizona Cardinals’ OC, a background Goff said shows Petzing has “called plays” before and can handle a coordinating role.
Goff emphasized Petzing’s versatility and adaptability, saying the new OC isn’t tied to a single scheme and will tailor the offense to maximize Detroit’s strengths. He also cited positive feedback about Petzing from players who have worked with him, including veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who started 12 games in Petzing’s offense in 2025.
Despite the Cardinals ranking 19th in yards and 23rd in points last season, Petzing inherits a Lions offense with more consistent recent production, led by Goff. Detroit has posted a top-five ranking in both points and yards in each of the past four seasons with Goff at the helm, although the 2025 unit did not reach those heights.
In 2025, Detroit finished fourth in scoring and fifth in yardage, but the offense regressed from its 2024 peak under Ben Johnson, with efficiency metrics slipping. The team saw declines in drive-scoring percentage, red-zone touchdown rate, and overall yardage per pass and per play compared to the previous year.
Goff has said the objective is clear: raise efficiency and maintain consistency. Petzing’s arrival gives the Lions a fresh system with proven play-calling experience, paired with a quarterback and a roster capable of sustaining a high-powered offense in 2026.
