Detroit Lions assistant coaches preview upcoming season opener against New Orleans Saints
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 9:15 PM
Last updated Sep 8, 2026

Detroit Lions associate head coach Scottie Montgomery and assistant head coach Jim O’Neil addressed the media on Tuesday to discuss team preparations ahead of the Week 1 game against the New Orleans Saints. The coaching staff emphasized the progress made during a rigorous training camp that featured 19 sessions and increased internal competition. O’Neil expressed confidence in the starting safety duo of Chuck Clark and Avonte Maddox, noting their ability to process information and communicate defensive schemes effectively. The Lions also expect significant contributions from safety Thomas Harper as the team prepares to face the New Orleans Saints at Ford Field. Coaches stressed the importance of defensive communication in anticipation of a loud home crowd environment during Sunday's contest.
- •Scottie Montgomery serves as the Lions associate head coach and wide receivers coach.
- •Jim O’Neil holds the title of assistant head coach and safeties coach.
- •Chuck Clark and Avonte Maddox are slated to start at safety for the season opener.
- •The Lions conducted 19 training camp sessions without joint practices to build physicality.
- •Thomas Harper remains part of the defensive rotation following his return to practice.
- 9:15 PMYahoo Sports — 6 takeaways from Detroit Lions’ associate/assistant head coaches Week 1 pressers
"An info-heavy recap of Detroit Lions press conferences from Scottie Montgomery and Jim O’Neil.
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