Red-Hot Lions Coordinator Aaron Glenn Turns Down Patriots Interview Amid Head Coaching Frenzy
The Detroit Lions have been one of the NFL’s most dominant teams this season, and their defense has been a cornerstone of their success—even while battling numerous injuries. This defensive excellence has put Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn in the spotlight, making him one of the most sought-after head coaching candidates in the league.
Glenn’s Busy Interview Schedule
According to NFL insider Tom Pelissero, Glenn has received head coach interview requests from five teams:
- New York Jets
- Chicago Bears
- New Orleans Saints
- Las Vegas Raiders
- Jacksonville Jaguars
However, one notable team will not get the chance to sit down with Glenn. The New England Patriots, despite requesting an interview, were declined by Glenn as he chose to focus on the other five openings.
Rising Star in Coaching
Glenn’s meteoric rise in the coaching ranks is remarkable. Beginning his coaching career in 2014 as the assistant defensive backs coach for the Cleveland Browns, Glenn moved on to serve as the defensive backs coach for the New Orleans Saints from 2016 to 2020. He joined the Lions as their defensive coordinator in 2021 and has since transformed their defense into one of the league’s most formidable units.
Impact on the Lions
While Glenn is a top candidate in the 2025 hiring cycle, he isn’t the only Lions coach in high demand. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is also generating interest from multiple teams for head coaching roles. Should both Glenn and Johnson leave, head coach Dan Campbell will face the significant challenge of replacing two key contributors to the Lions’ resurgence.
Patriots’ Search Continues
The Patriots will now have to look elsewhere to fill their head coaching vacancy. The team has already interviewed former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel, who is widely considered the favorite for the job.
Glenn’s decision not to interview with New England underscores his focus on opportunities that align with his vision and preparation. Whether it’s the Jets, Saints, or another team, it seems only a matter of time before Glenn steps into a head coaching role.
