Mark Washington returns for his second season as the Lions defensive backs coach after spending five seasons on the Lions roster (2003-2007).

Last season, the Lions secondary led the CFL with 21 interceptions with safety Barron Miles topping the CFL charts with eight and veterans Ryan Phillips and Korey Banks notching four each.

The veteran defensive back entered the league in 1997 with the Montreal Alouettes and spent six seasons with the club including the Als’ 2002 Grey Cup championship season.  After signing as a free agent with the Lions in 2003, Washington became a key component of the Lions secondary over 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 in the Cloverdale area, Mark and his wife Judy have two children, Imani and Jeremiah.