Stripping offensive coordinator John Morton of his play-calling responsibilities foreshadows what feels like an inevitable offseason breakup between him and the Detroit Lions. He’s on borrowed time, and the end is ostensibly near.

The question now becomes: Who will replace Morton? There are plenty of viable candidates, including some intriguing in-house options, namely offensive line coach/run game coordinator Hank Fraley.

Fraley has put together an impressive résumé since joining the Lions in 2018. Over the years, he’s elevated from assistant offensive line coach to his current title. However, Detroit isn’t the only one that sees a staffer on the rise, making him a name to watch as jobs become available.

After notably drawing interest during the last hiring cycle, Fraley may be on a similar timeline to Morton, albeit for different reasons. The former could be headed for an external promotion, with the Las Vegas Raiders suddenly emerging as a potential destination.

Lions could lose OL coach/run game coordinator Hank Fraley to Raiders’ OC vacancy

Just Blog Baby’s Brad Berreman believes Fraley is Las Vegas’ top choice to replace their recently fired offensive coordinator, Chip Kelly. Of course, this is subject to change depending on other changes the franchise makes, though it’s a logical fit in the current circumstances:

“Beyond any play-calling acumen, the Raiders need an offensive coordinator who knows how to coach and build a capable offensive line and run game,” Berreman wrote. “Fraley may be most comfortable climbing the ladder in Detroit, but the Raiders’ head coach, whoever it may be, should have an interest in hiring him.”

Losing Fraley to the Raiders (or anyone) would be a massive blow to the Lions. He’s helped churn out several Pro Bowl blockers in Detroit, such as retired center Frank Ragnow, Taylor Decker and All-Pro Penei Sewell. His contributions to a Lions ground attack that is pacing for its third straight top-six rushing yardage and touchdown output can’t be overstated.

Las Vegas desperately needs someone to maximize their protection unit and unlock standout rookie running back Ashton Jeanty, as Berreman highlights. With that in mind, Fraley profiles as exactly what they’re looking for, which is bad news for the Lions.

Nevertheless, if there’s any silver lining for the Lions, it’s that they may be able to offer Fraley the same opportunity the Raiders might. The difference in talent he’d have to work with in Detroit compared to Las Vegas is a strong selling point and possible tiebreaker.