Friday Notes: Lions to Introduce Schwartz This Afternoon

by Sean Yuille on Jan 16, 2009 4:18 AM EST in Notes Comment 0 comments

The Lions are going to introduce Jim Schwartz sometime shortly after noon ET today. Although Schwartz has already met with the media once this week, this press conference will be a lot different since he is now the head coach of the Lions. I will have full coverage of the press conference after I get out of class this afternoon.
Now that the Lions have found a head coach, the next task is to assemble a coaching staff. Jim Schwartz will play the biggest role in putting together a staff, and I don't think that he will wait very long to do so. It is important to hire assistants quickly because some won't be available for very long and because there is a need to get a system in place. Although the draft isn't until April, the scouting of players has already begun, making it very important that a system and coaching staff is in place somewhat quickly. Once a coaching staff is assembled, the Lions can begin to focus on personnel.
As Dave Birkett pointed out, Jim Schwartz isn't necessarily set on drafting a QB with the #1 overall pick. His history in scouting makes me think that the Lions are more likely to draft a lineman -- offensive or defensive -- since there is a better chance of finding a hidden gem of a QB in the later rounds.
Tom Kowalski thinks Kansas City's hiring of Scott Pioli sped up the hiring process for the Lions, as they didn't want to risk losing out on Schwartz.
Gregg Williams is the Saints' new defensive coordinator. There was some speculation that he would follow Jim Schwartz to Detroit, but Williams decided to go to New Orleans instead.
Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier is reportedly the leading candidate for the Rams job. I would love to see him leave the division.
Much to the dismay of Pete Carroll, USC quarterback Mark Sanchez is going to enter the NFL Draft.
Florida's Percy Harvin is going pro, but linebacker Brandon Spikes is going to return to school.