Lions name Dennis McKnight new special teams co-ordinator
The B.C. Lions announced Dennis McKnight as their new special teams coordinator on Monday. McKnight, who had retired last year after coaching special teams for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, returns to the CFL sidelines.
McKnight expressed that even after retirement, the game remained a strong presence in his thoughts. He noted that watching games would often lead him to instinctively coach from his home, a habit his wife observed. This deep connection to football ultimately led to his return to coaching.
McKnight’s Coaching Philosophy and Team Assessment
Despite his recent appointment, McKnight is familiar with the Lions’ capabilities, having faced them four times over the past two years while with the Tiger-Cats. He described the Lions as a “big, strong, fast, physical team.” His focus will be on refining their technique, believing that combining their existing physicality with improved technical execution will lead to success.
The change in coaching staff follows a challenging start to the season for the Lions. The team dismissed former special teams coordinator Cory McDiarmid on June 28, after the team began the season with three consecutive losses. Fullback Riley Pickett acknowledged the team’s disappointment regarding McDiarmid’s departure, stating that players felt they could have done more for their former coach. However, Pickett also emphasized the team’s readiness to move forward and perform for McKnight, recognizing that sudden changes are a part of football.
Veteran kicker Sean Whyte echoed the sentiment that adapting to a new coach is a professional responsibility for athletes. He highlighted the need for players to learn and adjust to McKnight’s methods and coaching style. This period of adjustment is seen as a necessary step for the team to improve its performance.
Background and Expectations
McKnight brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Hailing from Dallas, Texas, he played 141 NFL games as an offensive guard, including eight seasons with the San Diego Chargers. He also had stints with the Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles. His coaching career began in 1999 at the University of Hawaii, and since then, he has held various positions across multiple NCAA programs and the XFL.
Neil McEvoy, the Lions’ vice president of football operations, described McKnight as an “old-school type of coach” who he believes will benefit the players. McEvoy acknowledged the difficulty of stepping into a role previously held by a well-liked coach like McDiarmid. However, he noted that McKnight has already begun to develop strong relationships with the players, which is crucial for the team’s progress.
The Lions entered their bye week with a 1-3 record, a start that McEvoy admitted was below expectations. He stressed the importance of accountability from the players to turn the season around. The team’s offence, defence, and special teams units all need to improve their performance to achieve better results. The Lions are scheduled to return to play on Friday, facing the Elks (4-1) in Edmonton.
McEvoy emphasized that while coaching changes can be made, ultimately, it is the players on the field who must execute and win games. The focus is now on the team taking responsibility and performing at a higher level as they prepare for their next match.
Source: sportsnet.ca
