The Detroit Lions sported one of the best offensive lines in the NFL this season. Credit there goes to offensive line coach Hank Fraley. Now, Fraley’s name is at least popping up in this year’s head-coaching interview cycle.
Per a report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Seattle Seahawks requested to interview Fraley for their vacant offensive coordinator position. According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, Fraley is looking to find a pass-game coordinator he would pair with. Seattle, who finished 10-7 under first-year head coach Mike McDonald, fired offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb after one season.
Fraley’s offensive line helped the Lions register the league’s No. 2-ranked offense and 409.5 yards per game. Detroit also had the No. 2 passing offense and the No. 6 rushing offense. Only nine teams allowed fewer sacks this season than Detroit’s 33.
While seeing Fraley’s name mentioned is good, one NFL insider is pouring cold water on the idea. NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo noted that the New York Giants blocked Seattle’s request to interview offensive coordinator Mike Kafka and the same could happen here. It would be a promotion for Fraley, but with the position being for offensive coordinator, Detroit can deny the request.
The #Giants blocked the #Seahawks‘ request to interview Mike Kafka last year. I’m expecting the same this time around, so he likely won’t be in the mix there. https://t.co/jVyRoCeuSl
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) January 9, 2025
If anything, Fraley could become a candidate to be the Lions’ offensive coordinator if and when Ben Johnson leaves to become a head coach somewhere — Johnson is interviewing with four teams this weekend. If Detroit believes they are losing Johnson, they could block Seattle’s request for Fraley and then promote him this offseason.