Aubrey Pleasant is back for a second season as the defensive backs coach of the Detroit Lions. Based on his offseason so far and the growing buzz around Pleasant, there isn’t likely to be a third.
No, it’s not because Pleasant isn’t good. Quite the contrary. Pleasant is a rising coaching star that will be very difficult for the Lions to keep much longer.
Pleasant interviewed for the defensive coordinator vacancies in New Orleans and Minnesota this offseason. And while he didn’t get those coaching gigs, one of the men who interviewed him sees a grand future for Pleasant.
In his media session at the 2022 scouting combine, new Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell raved about Pleasant. The two worked together on Sean McVay’s staff in Los Angeles but have known each other beyond that.
“I think he’s going to be a future head coach in this league,” O’Connell stated. “I think the next step in the process for him is coordinating a defense. Aubrey is so impressive to me, he’s always been. I’ve known him for a few years, even dating back to before we were together in LA. I know coach McVay has a ton of respect for him. Their relationship is really strong.”
Pleasant is one of several Lions assistant coaches with definite upward mobility. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn has interviewed for head coaching jobs with the Jets and Broncos over the last two offseasons and will get more chances. RB coach Duce Staley impressed in leading the National team at the Senior Bowl, serving as head coach for the week in Mobile.
Pleasant is a natural successor for Glenn as the DC if Glenn leaves, but Pleasant could also go along with him or get a head coaching job of his own. LB coach Kelvin Sheppard and OL coach Hank Fraley are also eminently worthy candidates for bigger positions, either in Detroit or another team.
