Two of the more prominent candidates for the Detroit Lions head coaching vacancy are no longer available to the team.
Robert Saleh, considered an early front-runner in Detroit, has been hired as the head coach of the New York Jets. The former San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator joined the Jets on Friday morning. He is a Detroit-area native and had strong interest amongst the local Lions fanbase.
Another top candidate, Arthur Smith, canceled his trip to Detroit for a second interview with the Lions. Smith is widely expected to accept the head coaching position with the Atlanta Falcons as early as Friday. Smith has been the offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans for the last two seasons.
The Lions hired Brad Holmes as the new GM on Thursday from the Los Angeles Rams. His presence could alter the candidate pool for the head coaching vacancy.
