Brian Duker is moving to South Beach after three seasons with the Detroit Lions. According to the NFL Network, Duker will coach the
Miami Dolphins’ defensive backs and coordinate the passing game.
Deshea Townsend, a defensive assistant, was recently hired by the Lions to train their cornerbacks and coordinate their passing game.
This past season, Duker coached the Lions’ defensive backs, while Dré Bly coached the cornerbacks. They will also hire Terrell
Williams as the new defensive line coach and run game coordinator. It’s uncertain what the future holds for Bly and defensive line
coach John Scott Jr.
Duker began as a defensive assistant in 2021 and advanced to safeties coach in 2022. He took on greater responsibilities this past year,
directing the secondary, and now travels to Miami for what appears to be an even larger position.
He previously coached for the San Francisco 49ers, Cleveland Browns, and Baltimore Ravens before joining Dan Campbell’s first staff
in Detroit.
Throughout the previous three seasons, the secondary has experienced numerous adjustments and bumps. Outside cornerback is
projected to be the franchise’s #1 priority this offseason.
Last season, they signed cornerbacks Emmanuel Moseley and Cam Sutton in an attempt to address the issue. Moseley played two
snaps following a delayed return, but another ACL injury ended his season. Sutton was there every step of the way, with mixed results.
In the second half of the season, Kindle Vildor replaced Jerry Jacobs, who had replaced Moseley in the starting lineup.
Brian Branch appears to be one of the league’s greatest nickelbacks for years to come if he keeps up the pace he set this season. The
rookie started on day one and transformed the team’s backfield from training camp until the end of the season.
Another encouraging aspect has been the appearance of Ifeatu Melifonwu at safety. Melifonwu did not make the starting lineup until
late in the season, but he emerged as one of the most significant players down the stretch. Kerby Joseph has been another prominent
player in his first two seasons. However, with Tracy Walker’s future in Detroit uncertain, there may be opportunity for an addition in
the backfield.
