Mark Washington- Linebackers Coach
Mark returns to the Lions in 2026 after he most recently served as defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats from 2019-24. He helped the Ticats to Grey Cup appearances in each of his first two seasons in Steel Town.
After spending his final five seasons as a player with the Lions from 2003-07, the Rutgers product took over as defensive backs coach for six seasons before being promoted to defensive coordinator in 2014.
During his five-season run as D.C., Washington’s unit produced 11 West Division All-Stars and three Most Outstanding Defensive Player Awards: Solomon Elimimian in 2014 and 2016, Adam Bighill in 2015. Also in 2014, Eliminian became the first defensive player in history to win CFL Most Outstanding Player. Washington won the Grey Cup as a player with the Lions in 2006 and as a coach in 2011.