Why the Lions fired DB coach Aubrey Pleasant
By Nick Baumgardner and Colton Pouncy
Oct 31, 2022
The Lions have fired defensive backs coach Aubrey Pleasant, coach Dan Campbell confirmed during a news conference Monday. Here’s what you need to know:
Detroit lost its fifth consecutive game Sunday, 31-27 to the Dolphins.
The Lions’ defense has allowed the sixth-most passing yards per game this year.
Pleasant was a sought-after coach this past offseason, interviewing for defensive coordinator jobs with multiple other teams.
The Lions are 1-6 this season. They play the Packers on Sunday.
The Athletic’s instant analysis:
Backstory
Pleasant joined the Lions staff in 2021 after spending four seasons as the Rams’ cornerbacks coach. He interviewed for defensive coordinator jobs with Minnesota and New Orleans after his first season in Detroit.
He made The Athletic’s NFL 40 under 40 over the summer.
What spurred the coaching change?
The bottom line here: Detroit’s secondary has been a disaster since day one of the Campbell era, and it remains so today. Jeff Okudah has shown improvement this year and is in the midst of his best on-field stretch as a pro. The rest of the group, however, is a mess. Per PFF, starting CB Amani Oruwariye has allowed nearly 79 percent of targets against to be completed this season. He was an imperfect 7-for-7 on Sunday against Miami. – Baumgardner
Campbell said he made the decision Monday morning following Sunday’s loss. Based on his comments Monday, though, this has been building for a few weeks. He called it an accumulation of things. Detroit’s defense has allowed the sixth-most passing yards per game and an NFL-worst 32.1 points per game. He called it a “production-based business.” He said he wants the message relayed a little better, adding that the secondary and coaches need to be on the same page and cut mental errors in half. – Pouncy
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