Detroit Lions Hire Former NFL Quarterback Bruce Gradkowski as Offensive Coaching Assistant
The Detroit Lions have made another addition to their coaching staff, hiring former NFL quarterback Bruce Gradkowski as an offensive coaching assistant, according to a report from Adam Schefter. The move adds experience to the Lions’ offensive staff as they continue to refine their coaching lineup ahead of the upcoming season.
Gradkowski’s NFL Career
Gradkowski spent 11 seasons in the NFL, playing for multiple teams after being selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the sixth round of the 2006 NFL Draft. Throughout his career, he started 20 games and completed 375 of 709 pass attempts, totaling 4,057 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 24 interceptions. Though he never secured a long-term starting role, he proved to be a reliable backup and an experienced presence in quarterback rooms across the league.
Coaching Experience in the XFL and UFL
Following his playing career, Gradkowski transitioned into coaching and most recently served as the offensive coordinator for the St. Louis Battlehawks in both the XFL and UFL. Under his guidance, the Battlehawks’ offense was among the best in both leagues. In 2023, while competing in the XFL, the team finished second in scoring, averaging 24.9 points per game. After the transition to the UFL in 2024, the Battlehawks remained one of the top offenses, averaging 26.0 points per game, trailing only the Birmingham Stallions, who posted 26.5 points per game and went on to win the championship.
Unclear Role on the Lions’ Coaching Staff
At this time, the specific responsibilities Gradkowski will take on with the Lions remain uncertain. It is not yet known whether he will serve as a general offensive assistant or take on a more specialized role with a particular position group. One possibility is that he could fill the vacant assistant quarterbacks coach role. That position became available after J.T. Barrett accepted a job with the Chicago Bears as their new quarterbacks coach, following former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who also joined Chicago’s staff.
No Direct Connections to the Current Lions Staff
Unlike some coaching hires that involve pre-existing relationships, there does not appear to be a direct connection between Gradkowski and the current Lions coaching staff. However, there is a minor link to the organization’s front office. Back in 2008, Gradkowski spent training camp with the St. Louis Rams, where Brad Holmes—now the general manager of the Lions—was working as a scout. While this may not have played a direct role in his hiring, it does provide a small link between Gradkowski and Detroit’s leadership.
What Gradkowski Brings to the Lions
With experience as both an NFL quarterback and a play-caller in the XFL and UFL, Gradkowski brings valuable insight into offensive schemes and quarterback development. His ability to work with quarterbacks and offensive systems could be particularly beneficial for the Lions, who are looking to continue building on their recent success.
Gradkowski’s experience in different offensive systems, as well as his time mentoring quarterbacks at various levels, suggests he could be a strong addition to Detroit’s staff. Whether he helps develop young quarterbacks, assists in game planning, or contributes in another capacity, his presence should provide additional depth to the offensive coaching unit.
Detroit Lions’ Coaching Moves Continue
The Lions have been active in making adjustments to their coaching staff as they prepare for the 2025 season. With the departure of key coaches like Barrett and Johnson, Detroit has been working to solidify its staff to maintain continuity and build on recent playoff appearances.
This latest move is part of a broader effort by the Lions to refine their coaching personnel. As they continue to add experienced football minds to the team, fans will be eager to see how these changes impact Detroit’s performance in the upcoming season.
For updates on all of the latest coaching hires and staff changes, fans can follow the team’s 2025 Detroit Lions coaching staff tracker.