Reports: Duce Staley leaving Lions for Panthers

Duce Staley is leaving the Detroit Lions for an unspecified role on Frank Reich's new staff in Carolina, multiple outlets reported Wednesday.

The Panthers are considering Staley for their offensive coordinator role under Reich, though they've also requested permission to interview Jacksonville's Jim Bob Cooter, according to NFL Network.

Regardless, Staley would have an equal or elevated role on the Panthers. He was running backs coach/assistant head coach with the Lions for the past two seasons.

The Detroit News reports that the Lions gave Staley permission to leave to be closer to his mother, who lives in South Carolina, even if it's not an elevated role. Staley's mother is reportedly dealing with health issues.

The move reunites Staley with Reich, with whom he worked in Philadelphia when Reich was the OC and Staley the RBs coach.

Staley, 47, rushed for 5,785 yards and 24 touchdowns in his 10-year career with the Eagles (1997-2003) and Pittsburgh Steelers (2004-06). He also finished with 287 receptions for 2,587 yards and 10 TDs.