5 head coaching candidates for the Detroit Lions this offseason

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - DECEMBER 26: Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh of the San Francisco 49ers looks on during the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on December 26, 2020 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, ARIZONA - DECEMBER 26: Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh of the San Francisco 49ers looks on during the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on December 26, 2020 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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NASHVILLE, TN – OCTOBER 14: Defensive coordinator Don Martindale of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates after the game against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium on October 14, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Ravens won 21-0. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TN – OCTOBER 14: Defensive coordinator Don Martindale of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates after the game against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium on October 14, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Ravens won 21-0. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

Defensive Coordinator. Baltimore Ravens. 3. 26. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Don Martindale . player

When a team is great, usually their coordinators get a look or two. Although the Baltimore Ravens hit a snag during the middle of their season, is there a team as hot as them entering the postseason?

Greg Roman still has plenty to work with under Lamar Jackson’s offense. Don “Wink” Martindale does not, meaning he could be a head coach before next season rolls around.

Martindale was a hot candidate last season after posting a top-three defense. He interviewed for the New York Giants position that ultimately went to former Patriots’ special teams’ coach Joe Judge. This season, the Ravens have only become better, posting quality numbers in blitzing packages and in the secondary.

Jeff Okudah was a top-three pick for the Lions, meaning they’ll need him to hit. Martindale’s Rolodex of names could help him entice talent to join a franchise needing defensive playmakers that best fit his system. And with the right names on his staff, this could be a match made in heaven.

Detroit needs toughness and there are few as tough as Martindale on the sideline. He’ll demand defensive perfection, something the Lions have needed well before Patricia ever joined the staff.