The B.C. Lions have given defensive coordinator Ryan Phillips the added role of assistant head coach.
The 41-year-old is the longest-serving member of B.C.’s staff since he became the club’s defensive backs coach in 2019 following a 13-year playing career. He was promoted to the role of defensive coordinator in 2022 and has now taken on additional responsibilities as the assistant to head coach and co-general manager Rick Campbell.
Under Phillips, the Lions became the first CFL defence to record two shutouts in the same season since the Calgary Stampeders did so in 1970. The unit finished the year ranked fourth in points allowed (439), second in net offence allowed (328.8 per game), second in sacks (55), and seventh in takeaways (32).
The Lions have also retained their entire coaching staff for 2024, including Campbell, Phillips, offensive coordinator Jordan Maksymic, special teams coordinator Mike Benevides, defensive line coach John Bowman, linebackers coach Travis Brown, assistant defensive backs coach Tanya Henderson, receivers coach Jason Tucker, offensive line coach Kelly Bates, running backs coach Trysten Dyce, and special teams assistant and video coordinator Derek Oswalt.
“We are thrilled to retain our coaching staff. It’s a big step in our process of getting ready for 2024,” said Campbell in a statement. “This is a group of great teachers and quality people. The continuity allows us to evolve and grow as a team and to be prepared for the exciting season ahead.”
The Lions have finished the past two seasons with 12-6 records, finishing second in the West Division both years. The team won the West Semi-Final over the Calgary Stampeders this past season before losing to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the West Final.
B.C. is slated to host the Grey Cup in 2024.
