The Detroit Lions are adding a new offensive coach with a strong college pedigree, bringing in Tyler Roehl from Iowa State. Roehl, who served as the assistant head coach and running backs coach at Iowa State, will be joining Dan Campbell’s staff as an offensive assistant, as reported by CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz on February 11, 2025.
Roehl, 39, has an impressive background, having won seven FCS National Championships while coaching at his alma mater, North Dakota State. He worked there in various roles, including graduate assistant, running backs and tight ends coach, and offensive coordinator.
He joined Iowa State’s staff in 2024 after spending nearly a decade at North Dakota State. During his time at Iowa State, the Cyclones had a strong 2024 season, finishing 11-3 and making it to the Big 12 Championship game, before securing a win over Miami in the Pop-Tarts Bowl.
Roehl will work alongside new offensive coordinator John Morton, who was hired from the Denver Broncos to replace Ben Johnson, who left to take the head coaching position with the Chicago Bears. Morton has previously worked as the Broncos’ passing game coordinator and spent a season with the Lions under Campbell. The Lions have also made additional moves to strengthen their offensive coaching staff, hiring former Stanford head coach David Shaw as passing game coordinator and former NFL QB Bruce Gradkowski as an offensive assistant.
Before joining Iowa State, Roehl led North Dakota State’s offense to great success, with the Bison ranking among the top FCS teams in several offensive categories. In 2023, under Roehl’s leadership, North Dakota State’s offense was one of the most prolific in the nation, ranking first in rushing yards (3,560), rushing touchdowns (47), and overall touchdowns (74). He coached five FCS All-Americans and 11 players who earned 15 all-conference honors.
Roehl also had a standout playing career as a running back at North Dakota State, where he earned All-American honors. He played from 2004 to 2006, rushing for over 1,400 yards and 21 touchdowns in 2007, and more than 1,000 yards with 13 touchdowns in 2008. Roehl’s professional playing career was short-lived due to an ACL injury, but he transitioned into coaching after his playing days ended.
This move marks a continued emphasis on strengthening the Lions’ offense, with Roehl bringing a wealth of experience and a championship-winning mindset to the team.
