In the search for a new offensive coordinator, the New England Patriots have set their sights on Detroit Lions passing game coordinator Tanner Engstrand. The news, first reported by Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, reveals that Engstrand is one of the candidates being considered for the position.

A former quarterback at San Diego State University, Engstrand began his coaching career in 2005 as a graduate assistant under the guidance of Jim Harbaugh at the University of San Diego. He then went on to serve in various coaching roles, including running backs coach, quarterbacks coach, offensive coordinator, and assistant head coach during his tenure with the Torreros.

Engstrand's expertise led him to join the Michigan Wolverines as an offensive analyst in 2018 before making his way to the XFL as the offensive coordinator for the DC Defenders. After his XFL stint, Engstrand joined the Detroit Lions' coaching staff, starting as an offensive assistant in 2020 and quickly climbing the ranks to become the tight ends coach in 2022.

Under Engstrand's guidance, the Lions' tight ends set a franchise record in 2022 by combining for 12 touchdown receptions, with three different players achieving multi-touchdown games. In 2023, as the passing game coordinator, Engstrand played an instrumental role in the success of quarterback Jared Goff, who completed 67.3 percent of his passes for 4,575 yards with 30 touchdowns and 12 interceptions during the regular season.

Engstrand also played a key role in developing wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, who had an outstanding season, catching 119 passes for 1,515 yards and 10 touchdowns. Additionally, rookie tight end Sam LaPorta excelled under Engstrand's guidance, securing 86 passes for 889 yards and 10 touchdowns, leading to his selection as a second-team All-Pro.

With the Patriots' offensive coordinator position vacant after Bill O'Brien's departure to Ohio State, Engstrand joins a list of seven candidates reportedly being considered for the role. Along with Engstrand, Houston Texans quarterbacks coach Jerrod Johnson and Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator Thomas Brown are among the latest additions to the candidate pool.

As the Patriots continue their search for a new offensive coordinator, the interview with Tanner Engstrand presents an opportunity to assess his qualifications and approaches in line with the team's offensive strategies.