Lions GM: Five potential candidates

Sep 3, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons assistant general manager Scott Pioli shown on the sideline of the game against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons defeated the Ravens 20-19. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

3 of 6

Oct 4, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; A general view of a Kansas City Chiefs helmet on the sidelines during a game of the Kansas City Chiefs against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium. The Bengals won 36-21. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /

Chris Ballard was a finalist for the Chicago Bears general manager opening last year but ultimately decided to go back to the Chiefs. Ryan Pace was eventually given the job, and the rest is history. Ballard has been one of the more sought-after front office executives in recent years, with many believing he has the chops to get the job done as the front man.

Kansas City knows what it has in Ballard, and this spring made him the director of football operations. Ballard is the right-hand man of general manager John Dorsey, something that could lead him to believe he’s the next in line for the Chiefs. That said, Dorsey has done a nice job in Kansas City, making one believe he might be better off going elsewhere to make a higher salary and get a premiere job.

Ballard has never been a general manager before, so it is a gamble for the Ford family. The last two times the Lions have hired a general manager (Millen and Mayhew) they have brought men in without any kind of past in such a prime position. Ballard has been in an NFL front office for years, but that is different than running the show. Would Detroit take the plunge?

Next: Mike Tannenbaum

Home/Detroit Lions