ALLEN PARK, Mich. (Jan. 29, 2006) -- The Detroit Lions announced that Donnie Henderson is the team's new defensive coordinator.
Henderson comes to the Lions after two seasons as the New York Jets' defensive coordinator. He parted ways with the team after Eric Mangini was hired as head coach Jan. 17.
Henderson oversaw a vast improvement in the Jets' defense as the team made the playoffs in his first year there. In 2005, the defense played well at times but could not carry an anemic offense. Injuries also plagued the team as the Jets finished 4-12.
Before joining the Jets, Henderson spent five seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, first as assistant defensive backs coach and then as defensive backs coach.
Lions coach Rod Marinelli also announced that Chuck Priefer will return next season as special teams coordinator. The Lions also said Phil Snow will be the new linebackers coach -- he was a defensive assistant for the Lions last season.
Defensive assistant Don Clemons, assistant special teams coach Stan Kwan and coaching assistant Adam Gase also will be retained.
