The Detroit Lions are reportedly making a splash hire on its coaching staff to kick off the team’s 2023 offseason.

ESPN's Panthers beat writer David Newton reports that the Lions are expected to hire longtime NFL coach John Fox. According to the report, Fox is expected to join the Lions as a senior defensive consultant.

Former Carolina, Chicago and Denver head coach John Fox appears headed to the Lions as a senior defensive consultant, per league source. Fox had a similar role with the Colts this past season.

— David Newton (@DNewtonespn) February 28, 2023

Fox’s NFL experience dates all the way back to 1989, as he cut his teeth as one of the game’s sharpest defensive minds. He made three stops as a head coach with the Panthers (2002-2010), Broncos (2011-2014), and Bears (2015-2017).

After his stint in Chicago came to an end, Fox took some time away from the league. He jumped back in last season, serving as a senior defensive assistant with the Indianapolis Colts.

Fox does bring Super Bowl experience to Detroit. He’s made two Super Bowls as a head coach, one with the Panthers in 2003 and the other coming with the Broncos in 2013. His first Super Bowl experience came as a defensive coordinator with the Giants in 2000. Unfortunately, Fox is still in search of his first Super Bowl ring having lost in all three of his appearances.

It’s never a bad thing to have a coach like Fox in the building. At age 68, there’s nothing Fox hasn’t seen in this league. He represents another weapon head coach Dan Campbell can turn to as the Lions look to make their first playoff appearance since 2016.

Featured image via Lon Horwedel-USA TODAY Sports