The Detroit Lions have emerged as one of the NFC’s elite teams over the past three years, undergoing a remarkable transformation under the leadership of head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes. The 2023 season stands as a testament to the Lions' resurgence, as they clinched the NFC North title for the first time in decades and made a noteworthy playoff run.
From Underperformers to Contenders
Historically known for underperformance, the Lions’ recent success has been a refreshing change for their fans. The 2023 season was particularly significant as it marked the team's first playoff victory since 1991. This achievement set the stage for a thrilling journey that saw the Lions come tantalizingly close to securing a spot in the Super Bowl, falling just short in the NFC Championship Game.
Building Blocks of Success
The turnaround can be traced back to key decisions and strategic changes within the franchise. While Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes are often credited for transforming the team's fortunes, the foundation was laid by their predecessors. Matt Patricia, who served as head coach from 2018 until mid-2020, along with former general manager Bob Quinn, made significant contributions, particularly in the 2018 NFL Draft.
It was during Patricia's tenure that the Lions drafted center Frank Ragnow in the first round. Ragnow has since become a cornerstone of the offensive line, playing a vital role in the team’s impressive performance. Additionally, players such as Taylor Decker and Graham Glasgow, who were part of the team prior to Patricia’s arrival, laid the groundwork for a more robust offensive strategy.
Key Additions and Strategic Moves
However, not all of Patricia and Quinn’s decisions were beneficial in the long term. Notably, Graham Glasgow was not re-signed in 2019. The subsequent departure of Patricia opened the door for the addition of crucial players like Penei Sewell and Kevin Zeitler, through the draft and free agency, further solidifying the offensive line.
Bill Belichick, the New England Patriots’ head coach, acknowledged Patricia’s impact in a recent quote from the “Let's Go” podcast. “I think that the Lions have built a really good offensive line for their quarterback, and they couldn't get a lot of production in the red area last week, but that's something that Matt Patricia started and now they're kind of getting the fruits of the labor from him,” Belichick noted. This recognition highlights the collaborative effort and continuity that have been essential in the Lions’ development.
A Bright Future on the Horizon
With a solid offensive line and a winning mindset, the Detroit Lions are poised for continued success. The synergy between past efforts and current strategies has knit together a team capable of competing at the highest levels. As they prepare for future seasons, the Lions can rely on the strong foundation built over the last few years, and the leadership of Campbell and Holmes, to drive further achievements.
The 2023 season has not only rekindled hope among the Lions’ fanbase but also set a new standard for an organization long-starved for success. The combination of shrewd drafting, effective free-agent acquisitions, and resilient coaching has positioned the Lions as formidable contenders within the NFC. As they look to build on their recent achievements, one thing is clear: The Detroit Lions are no longer the league’s perennial underperformers but a team with legitimate championship aspirations.