When Drew Petzing was hired as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, out of nowhere with an interview process that was a secret to media, a lot was immediately made about his tilt toward tight-end heavy personnel deployment.Last season, according to Sumer Sports, Petzing’s Arizona Cardinals’ offense used “13” personnel (three tight ends) at the third-highest rate and for the third-most plays. In 2024, the Cardinals used “13” personnel” at the second-highest rate and for the second-most plays.A question also became if the Lions were equipped to fulfill that tendency from Petzing. Sam LaPorta’s absence late last season showed they probably weren’t, but the addition of Tyler Conklin in free agency bolstered the tight end depth chart. Now that Conklin is healthy and ready to go, the camp competition between he and Brock Wright for the TE2 spot can commence as it had been envisioned. The loser of the battle will be lined up to be the TE3, and the Lions wil be in a solid position to put three capable tight ends on the field if Petzing is so inclined.
Drew Petzing sounds ready to integrate 13 personnel into the Lions’ offense
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Petzing was asked what he considers the trademark of his offense to be
“It needs to be physical, it needs to be tough and it needs to be multiple, at times”, Petzing said
Petzing was then asked more specifically about his tendency toward 13 personnel, in light of the Lions being stronger top to bottom at wide receiver than they are at tight end. He gave the expected answer about putting the best players on the field, whatever that looks like in terms of personnel deployment
The Lions’ tight end depth chart already had some fluctuation early in training camp due to injuries. When asked for his evaluation of the room, Petzing took the opportunity to praise Wright (h/t to Jeremy Reisman of Pride of Detroit)
Lions OC Drew Petzing on TE Brock Wright: “Arguably one of the most reliable pros in this organization just in terms of the role he has for us on offense.”
— Jeremy Reisman (@DetroitOnLion) August 6, 2026
Wright is absolutely vulnerable to being bumped down the depth chart by Conklin, and the idea he could be a potential surprise cut is out there. But he has also been well-regarded by the Lions’ coaching staff. Petzing is clearly already in that boat, speaking about Wright’s role in the offense as if it’s a foregone conclusion he’ll have a noticeable one. That, more than anything, is a clear sign 13 personnel will be a notable part of the Lions’ offense this season
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