Mark Washington returns for his fifth season as the Lions’ defensive backs coach after spending five seasons on the Lions roster from 2003 to 2007.

Led by veterans Korey Banks and Dante Marsh who earned divisional nods as all-stars in 2011, the Lions secondary limited opposing teams to the second fewest passing yards (4,484) and the fewest passing TD’s (20) last season.

A former defensive back who entered the CFL in 1997 with the Montreal Alouettes, Washington spent six seasons with the Als’ including the 2002 Grey Cup championship season.  After signing as a free agent with the Lions in 2003, Mark became a key component of the Lions secondary over the next five seasons, culminating in the club’s 2006 championship run.

A natural locker room leader and familiar face in Lions community programs, Mark was recognized for his inspirational play by the Lions in 2003 with the Fred Dietrich Award, followed by CFLPA’s Tom Pate Award in 2006 for outstanding sportsmanship in addition to significant contributions to his team and community.

A native of Washington, DC, Mark attended Rutgers University and graduated with a degree in Industrial Engineering.  Now a year-round resident of the Cloverdale area, Mark and his wife Judy have two children, Imani and Jeremiah.