Jump to content
Main menu
Main menu
move to sidebar
hide
Navigation
Main page
Recent changes
Random page
Help about MediaWiki
Special pages
Niidae Wiki
Search
Search
Appearance
Create account
Log in
Personal tools
Create account
Log in
Pages for logged out editors
learn more
Contributions
Talk
Editing
Detroit Lions
Page
Discussion
English
Read
Edit
View history
Tools
Tools
move to sidebar
hide
Actions
Read
Edit
View history
General
What links here
Related changes
Page information
Appearance
move to sidebar
hide
Warning:
You are not logged in. Your IP address will be publicly visible if you make any edits. If you
log in
or
create an account
, your edits will be attributed to your username, along with other benefits.
Anti-spam check. Do
not
fill this in!
{{short description|National Football League franchise in Detroit, Michigan}} {{pp-vandalism|small=yes}} {{Use mdy dates|date=December 2024}} {{Infobox NFL team | name = Detroit Lions | current = 2025 Detroit Lions season | wordmark = Detroit Lions wordmark.svg | logo = Detroit Lions logo.svg | founded = {{start date and age|1930|07|12}}<ref name="DetroitLionsFacts">{{cite web |title=Detroit Lions Team Facts |url=http://www.profootballhof.com/teams/detroit-lions/team-facts/ |website=[[Pro Football Hall of Fame]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190412222501/https://www.profootballhof.com/teams/detroit-lions/team-facts/ |archive-date=April 12, 2019 |url-status=live |access-date=October 2, 2017}}</ref> | first_season = [[1930 Portsmouth Spartans season|1930]] | stadium = [[Ford Field]], [[Detroit, Michigan]] | headquartered = Meijer Performance Center, [[Allen Park, Michigan]]<ref>{{cite web|title=Detroit Lions expand and extend partnership with Meijer|url=https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-expand-and-extend-partnership-with-meijer|website=Detroit Lions|date=July 23, 2024|access-date=April 25, 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203092409/https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-expand-and-extend-partnership-with-meijer|archive-date=December 3, 2024|url-status=live}}</ref> | uniform = [[File:Detroit Lions Uniforms 2024-Present.png|250px]] | colors = Honolulu blue, silver, black, white<ref name=Lions2024jerseys>{{cite web |title=Detroit Lions unveil new uniforms |url=https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-unveil-new-uniforms |website=Detroit Lions |date=April 18, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240423044921/https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-unveil-new-uniforms |archive-date=April 23, 2024 |url-status=live |access-date=April 23, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=New-look Lions: Reigning NFC North champions unveil fresh uniforms, including all-black alternates |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/new-look-lions-reigning-nfc-north-champions-unveil-fresh-uniforms-including-all-back-alternates |website=[[National Football League]] |date=April 18, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240425191844/https://www.nfl.com/news/new-look-lions-reigning-nfc-north-champions-unveil-fresh-uniforms-including-all-back-alternates |archive-date=April 25, 2024 |url-status=live |last=Smith |first=Coral |access-date=April 29, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |chapter=Detroit Lions Team Capsule |chapter-url=https://static.www.nfl.com/image/upload/league/apps/league-site/media-guides/2022/2022_NFL_Record_and_Fact_Book.pdf#page=171 |title=2022 Official National Football League Record and Fact Book |url=https://static.www.nfl.com/image/upload/league/apps/league-site/media-guides/2022/2022_NFL_Record_and_Fact_Book.pdf |publisher=NFL Enterprises, LLC |date=July 20, 2022 |access-date=July 8, 2024 |archive-date=November 6, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151106030504/http://www.nfl.com/static/content/public/photo/2015/07/21/0ap3000000502939.pdf |url-status=live}}</ref><br/>{{color box|#0076B6}} {{color box|#B0B7BC}} {{color box|#000000}} {{color box|#FFFFFF}} | coach = [[Dan Campbell]] | owner = [[Sheila Ford Hamp]]<ref>{{cite web |title=Martha Firestone Ford to step down as principal owner of Detroit Lions |url=https://www.detroitlions.com/news/martha-firestone-ford-to-step-down-sheila-ford-hamp-to-succeed-mother |website=Detroit Lions |date=June 23, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200624163508/https://www.detroitlions.com/news/martha-firestone-ford-to-step-down-sheila-ford-hamp-to-succeed-mother |archive-date=June 24, 2020 |url-status=live |language=en-US |access-date=June 25, 2020}}</ref> | chairman = Sheila Ford Hamp | president = [[Rod Wood]] | general manager = [[Brad Holmes]] | song = Gridiron Heroes | mascot = Roary the Lion | website = {{URL|detroitlions.com}} | hist_yr = 1934 | hist_misc = * [[Portsmouth Spartans]] (1928β1933) | NFL_start_yr = 1930 | division_hist = * Western Division (1933β1949) * National Conference (1950β1952) * Western Conference (1953β1969) ** Central Division (1967β1969) * '''[[National Football Conference]] (1970βpresent)''' ** [[NFC Central]] (1970β2001) ** '''[[NFC North]] (2002βpresent)''' | no_league_champs = 4 | no_conf_champs = 4 | no_div_champs = 6 | league_champs = * '''[[List of NFL champions (1920β69)|NFL championships]] (preβ1970 [[AFLβNFL merger]]) (4)'''<br/>[[1935 NFL Championship Game|1935]], [[1952 NFL Championship Game|1952]], [[1953 NFL Championship Game|1953]], [[1957 NFL Championship Game|1957]] | conf_champs = * '''NFL National:''' [[1952 Detroit Lions season|1952]] * '''NFL Western:''' [[1953 Detroit Lions season|1953]], [[1954 Detroit Lions season|1954]], [[1957 Detroit Lions season|1957]] | div_champs = * '''NFL Western:''' [[1935 Detroit Lions season|1935]] * '''NFC Central:''' [[1983 Detroit Lions season|1983]], [[1991 Detroit Lions season|1991]], [[1993 Detroit Lions season|1993]] * '''NFC North:''' [[2023 Detroit Lions season|2023]], [[2024 Detroit Lions season|2024]] | playoff_appearances = * '''NFL:''' [[1932 NFL Playoff Game|1932]], [[1935 NFL Championship Game|1935]], [[1952 NFL Championship Game|1952]], [[1953 NFL Championship Game|1953]], [[1954 NFL Championship Game|1954]], [[1957 NFL Championship Game|1957]], [[1970β71 NFL playoffs|1970]], [[1982β83 NFL playoffs|1982]], [[1983β84 NFL playoffs|1983]], [[1991β92 NFL playoffs|1991]], [[1993β94 NFL playoffs|1993]], [[1994β95 NFL playoffs|1994]], [[1995β96 NFL playoffs|1995]], [[1997β98 NFL playoffs|1997]], [[1999β2000 NFL playoffs|1999]], [[2011β12 NFL playoffs|2011]], [[2014β15 NFL playoffs|2014]], [[2016β17 NFL playoffs|2016]], [[2023β24 NFL playoffs|2023]], [[2024β25 NFL playoffs|2024]] | no_playoff_appearances = 20 | stadium_years = * [[Universal Stadium]] ({{nfly|1930|1933}}) * [[University of Detroit Stadium]] ({{nfly|1934|1937}}, {{nfly|1940}}) * [[Tiger Stadium (Detroit)|Tiger Stadium]] ({{nfly|1938|1939}}, {{nfly|1941|1974}}) * [[Pontiac Silverdome]] ({{nfly|1975|2001}}) * '''[[Ford Field]] ({{nfly|2002}}βpresent)''' | team_owners = * Harry N. Snyder (1930β1934) * [[George A. Richards]] (1934β1940) * [[Fred L. Mandel Jr.]] (1940β1948) * [[Detroit Football Company]] (1948β1964) * [[William Clay Ford Sr.]] (1964β2014) * [[Martha Firestone Ford]] (2014β2020) * [[Sheila Ford Hamp]] (2020βpresent) }} The '''Detroit Lions''' are a professional [[American football]] team based in [[Detroit]]. The Lions compete in the [[National Football League]] (NFL) as a member of the [[National Football Conference]] (NFC) [[NFC North|North]] division. The team plays their home games at [[Ford Field]] in [[Downtown Detroit]]. The franchise was founded in [[Portsmouth, Ohio]], as the [[Portsmouth Spartans]] in 1928 and joined the NFL on July 12, 1930.<ref name="DetroitLionsFacts"/><ref name="Barnett">{{cite web |title=THE PORTSMOUTH SPARTANS |url=http://www.profootballresearchers.org/coffin-corner80s/02-10-044.pdf |website=[[Professional Football Researchers Association]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200921101730/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/coffin-corner80s/02-10-044.pdf |archive-date=September 21, 2020 |url-status=live |last=Barnett |first=C. Robert |year=1980 |access-date=October 18, 2019}}</ref> Amid financial struggles, the franchise was [[Relocation of professional sports teams|relocated]] to Detroit in 1934 and renamed the Lions in reference to the city's [[Major League Baseball]] (MLB) franchise, the [[Detroit Tigers]].<ref name="Barnett"/><ref>{{cite web |title=How the Tigers, Lions, Red Wings, and Pistons got their names |url=https://www.vintagedetroit.com/how-the-tigers-lions-red-wings-and-pistons-got-their-names/ |website=Vintage Detroit |date=March 13, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220203142913/https://www.vintagedetroit.com/how-the-tigers-lions-red-wings-and-pistons-got-their-names/ |archive-date=February 3, 2022 |url-status=live |last=Holmes |first=Dan |access-date=February 3, 2022}}</ref> The Lions won four [[History of the National Football League championship#1933β1965: NFL Championship Game|NFL Championship Games]] between [[1935 NFL Championship Game|1935]] and [[1957 NFL Championship Game|1957]]. Following the 1957 championship, the franchise did not win a playoff game until the 1991 season and did not win another until the 2023 season. They are the only franchise operational for the entirety of the [[Super Bowl]] era to not appear in the Super Bowl.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=What Teams Have Never Won the Super Bowl? |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/02/03/what-teams-have-never-won-super-bowl |magazine=[[Sports Illustrated]] |date=February 3, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191018165233/https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/02/03/what-teams-have-never-won-super-bowl |archive-date=October 18, 2019 |url-status=live |last=Carroll |first=Charlotte |access-date=October 18, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=21 Football Facts to Fake Your Super Bowl Street Cred |url=https://www.eventbrite.com/rally/21-football-facts-for-your-super-bowl-party/ |website=[[Eventbrite]] |date=January 2, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180831072102/https://www.eventbrite.com/rally/21-football-facts-for-your-super-bowl-party/ |archive-date=August 31, 2018 |url-status=dead |last=Barringer |first=Daisy |access-date=January 10, 2019}}</ref> ==History== {{main|History of the Detroit Lions}} {{see also|List of Detroit Lions seasons}} ==Logos and uniforms== [[File:1986 Jeno's Pizza - 13 - Billy Sims.jpg|thumb|left|[[Billy Sims]] (No. 20) rushing the ball against the Los Angeles Rams on September 7, 1980]] Aside from a brief change to scarlet and black from 1948 to 1950 instituted by then head coach [[Bo McMillin]], which was influenced by his years as coach at [[Indiana University (Bloomington)|Indiana]], the Lions' uniforms have basically remained the same since they moved to Detroit in 1934βsilver helmets, silver pants, and either blue or white jerseys.<ref name="Uniforms">{{cite web |title=TBT: Lions uniforms through the years |url=https://www.detroitlions.com/photos/tbt-lions-uniforms-through-the-years-18733536#e55b2720-c6d2-41b3-b0d5-e97fa29894d0 |website=Detroit Lions |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191018205655/https://www.detroitlions.com/photos/tbt-lions-uniforms-through-the-years-18733536#e55b2720-c6d2-41b3-b0d5-e97fa29894d0 |archive-date=October 18, 2019 |url-status=live |access-date=October 18, 2019}}</ref><ref name="Dow">{{Cite web |last=Dow |first=Bill |date=April 22, 2009 |title=The Evolution of the Detroit Lions' Uniforms |url=https://www.vintagedetroit.com/blog/2009/04/22/the-evolution-of-the-detroit-lions%E2%80%99-uniform/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200627064004/https://www.vintagedetroit.com/blog/2009/04/22/the-evolution-of-the-detroit-lions%E2%80%99-uniform/ |archive-date=June 27, 2020 |access-date=October 18, 2019 |website=Vintage Detroit}}</ref> [[Glenn Presnell]], the then last surviving member of the 1934 Lions, recalled that after the [[Portsmouth Spartans]] relocated to Detroit, team owner [[George A. Richards]] asked him and his wife to pick the Lions' colors from combinations that included red and white, orange and black, and blue and silver. The Presnells liked blue and silver the best, so Richards selected it. The blue used by the Lions is officially known as "Honolulu blue", which is inspired by the color of the waves off the coast of Hawaii.<ref name=Dow/><ref>{{Cite web |last=NFL Throwback |date=August 20, 2020 |title=How EVERY Team Got Their Colors! |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXcFE3zTreg&t=0h12m59s |url-status=live |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/OXcFE3zTreg |archive-date=December 11, 2021 |access-date=May 10, 2021 |website=YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref> There have been minor changes to the uniform design throughout the years, such as changing the silver stripe patterns on the jersey sleeves, and changing the colors of the jersey numbers. "TV numbers", which are auxiliary uniform numbers to help TV broadcasters identify players from the line of scrimmage, were added to the jersey sleeves in 1956.<ref name=Dow/> White trim was added to the logo in 1970, with outlines (white on the blue jersey, silver on the white jersey) added to the numbers in 1972; the color arrangement on the numbers on the blue jerseys was reversed in 1982.<ref name=Uniforms/> The silver facemasks became blue in 1984. In 1998, the team wore blue pants with their white jerseys along with grey socks but dropped that combination after the season.<ref name=Uniforms/><ref>{{cite web |title=The Detroit Lions' uniforms for 2017 will be evolution of the current look |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/19154129/the-detroit-lions-uniforms-2017-evolution-current-look |publisher=[[ESPN]] |date=April 13, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191018205638/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/19154129/the-detroit-lions-uniforms-2017-evolution-current-look |archive-date=October 18, 2019 |url-status=live |last=Lukas |first=Paul |access-date=October 18, 2019}}</ref> In 1999, the "TV numbers" on the sleeves were moved to the shoulders.<ref>{{cite web |title=Detroit Lions |url=https://www.gridiron-uniforms.com/GUD/controller/controller.php?action=teams&team_id=DET |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240204125424/https://www.gridiron-uniforms.com/GUD/controller/controller.php?action=teams&team_id=DET |archive-date=February 4, 2024 |access-date=March 18, 2020 |website=The Gridiron Uniform Database}}</ref> In 1994, every NFL team wore throwback jerseys,<ref>{{cite web |first=Phil |last=Hecken |date=November 5, 2022 |title=Looking Back at the NFL's 75th Anniversary Throwbacks |url=https://uni-watch.com/2022/11/05/looking-back-at-the-nfls-75th-anniversary-throwbacks/ |access-date=September 28, 2023 |website=Uni Watch |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230812140302/https://uni-watch.com/2022/11/05/looking-back-at-the-nfls-75th-anniversary-throwbacks/ |archive-date=August 12, 2023 |language=en-US}}</ref> and the Lions' were similar to the jerseys worn during their 1935 championship season. The helmets and pants were solid silver, the jerseys Honolulu blue with silver numbers and the jersey did not have "TV numbers" on the sleeves. The team wore solid blue socks and black cleats. The helmets also did not have logos, as helmets were simple leather back then.<ref name=Uniforms/> The Lions also wore 1950s-style jerseys during their traditional [[NFL on Thanksgiving Day|Thanksgiving Day]] games from 2001 to 2004 as the NFL encouraged teams to wear throwback jerseys on Thanksgiving Day.<ref>{{multiref2 |1={{Cite web |date=November 22, 2001 |title=Little consolation: Lions rally, but still fall to 0β10 |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=211122008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308143646/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=211122008 |archive-date=March 8, 2021 |access-date=October 18, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} |2={{Cite web |date=November 28, 2002 |title=Lions give too charitably to Patriots |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=221128008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308132912/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=221128008 |archive-date=March 8, 2021 |access-date=October 18, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} |3={{Cite web |date=November 27, 2003 |title=Packers' playoff hopes hurt |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=231127008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308131818/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=231127008 |archive-date=March 8, 2021 |access-date=October 18, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} |4={{Cite web |date=November 25, 2004 |title=Manning throws 6 TDs in less than three quarters |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=241125008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191002154302/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=241125008 |archive-date=October 2, 2019 |access-date=October 18, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} |5={{Cite magazine |last=Illuminati |first=Chris |date=November 23, 2016 |title=NFL Thanksgiving Throwback Jerseys |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-sports/nfls-worst-thanksgiving-tradition-throwback-jerseys-114326/ |url-status=live |magazine=Rolling Stone |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191018205640/https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-sports/nfls-worst-thanksgiving-tradition-throwback-jerseys-114326/ |archive-date=October 18, 2019 |access-date=October 18, 2019}} }}</ref> In 2003, the team added black trim to their logo and jerseys. The facemasks on the helmet changed from blue to black with the introduction of the new color. In 2005, the team introduced an alternate black jersey.<ref name=Uniforms/><ref name="2017 logo">{{cite news |title=Detroit Lions tweak logo and font, will alter uniforms, too |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2017/02/01/detroit-lions-logo/97332380/ |date=February 1, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191018205644/https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2017/02/01/detroit-lions-logo/97332380/ |archive-date=October 18, 2019 |url-status=live |work=[[Detroit Free Press]] |last1=Birkett |first1=Dave |access-date=October 18, 2019}}</ref> For 2008, the team dropped the black jersey in favor of a throwback uniform to commemorate the franchise's 75th anniversary. The throwback uniform became the team's permanent alternate jersey in 2009, replacing the former black alternate.<ref name="noblack">{{Cite news |last=Kowalski |first=Tom |date=February 9, 2009 |title=Tom Lewand: Lions' black uniforms discarded |work=[[The Grand Rapids Press]] |url=http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2009/02/lions_black_uniforms_have_been.html |url-status=live |access-date=April 25, 2016 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20090210110014/http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2009/02/lions_black_uniforms_have_been.html |archive-date=February 10, 2009}}</ref> The Lions officially unveiled a new logo and uniforms on April 20, 2009. The logo was given a flowing mane and fangs, while the typeface featured a modern font.<ref>{{cite news |title=Lions Unveil New Comprehensive Brand; Team modifies team logo and uniforms and introduces new brand |url=http://www.detroitlions.com/news/article-1/Lions-Unveil-New-Comprehensive-Brand-Team-modifies-team-logo-and-uniforms-and-introduces-new-brandi/968af55e-1f81-4bbd-9af3-fe4d1de6e0f4 |date=April 20, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091114080945/http://www.detroitlions.com/news/article-1/Lions-Unveil-New-Comprehensive-Brand-Team-modifies-team-logo-and-uniforms-and-introduces-new-brandi/968af55e-1f81-4bbd-9af3-fe4d1de6e0f4 |archive-date=November 14, 2009 |url-status=dead |work=Detroit Lions |access-date=June 30, 2019}}</ref> [[File:Detroit lions unif17.png|thumb|left|250px|The Detroit Lions' uniform design from 2017 through 2023.]] On February 1, 2017, the Lions announced a new typeface, logo, and the complete removal of the color black from the team identity. While the previous logo was retained, the border was changed from black to silver.<ref name="LionsRebrand2017">{{cite web |title=Detroit Lions statement regarding rebranding |url=https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-statement-regarding-rebranding-18525342 |website=Detroit Lions |date=February 1, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180814103751/https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-statement-regarding-rebranding-18525342 |archive-date=August 14, 2018 |url-status=live |access-date=August 14, 2018}}</ref><ref name="2017 logo"/> The Lions then unveiled the new uniforms on April 13, 2017, which included the white jersey and blue pants combo for the first time since 1998. They introduced an alternate all-grey uniform, an alternate all-Honolulu blue uniform, and a helmet with a silver face mask.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lions unveil new uniforms, bring back throwbacks |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/lions-unveil-new-uniforms-bring-back-throwbacks-0ap3000000800029 |website=[[National Football League]] |date=April 13, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200714211313/https://www.nfl.com/news/lions-unveil-new-uniforms-bring-back-throwbacks-0ap3000000800029 |archive-date=July 14, 2020 |url-status=live |last1=Hanzus |first1=Dan |access-date=July 14, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release |title=Lions unveil new uniforms |url=https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-unveil-new-uniforms-18737536 |publisher=NFL Enterprises, LLC |website=DetroitLions.com |date=April 13, 2017 |access-date=August 14, 2018 |archive-date=August 14, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180814134749/https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-unveil-new-uniforms-18737536 |url-status=live}}</ref> The Lions also added the initials "WCF" to the left sleeve as a permanent tribute to [[William Clay Ford Sr.|William Clay Ford]], who owned the team from 1963 until his death in 2014. The sleeve addition replaced the black "WCF" patch on the left breast that was added after Ford's death.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Why do the Lions have "WCF"' on their jerseys? |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2017/09/09/detroit-lions-jersey-wcf-patch-uniform |magazine=[[Sports Illustrated]] |date=September 9, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180814103911/https://www.si.com/nfl/2017/09/09/detroit-lions-jersey-wcf-patch-uniform |archive-date=August 14, 2018 |url-status=live |last1=Rapaport |first1=Daniel |access-date=December 28, 2018}}</ref> On September 20, 2021, the Lions wore white pants with their road white uniforms against the [[2021 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]]. The white pants, which lacked striping, were previously worn during the "scarlet and black" era in the 1948 and 1949 seasons.<ref>{{cite news |title=Lions unveil special new uniform combination for 'Monday Night Football' showdown with Packers |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/lions-unveil-special-new-uniform-combination-for-monday-night-football-showdown-with-packers/ |date=September 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921205841/https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/lions-unveil-special-new-uniform-combination-for-monday-night-football-showdown-with-packers/ |archive-date=September 21, 2021 |url-status=live |work=[[CBS Sports]] |last1=Breech |first1=John |access-date=September 20, 2021}}</ref> On April 12, 2023, the Lions announced they would celebrate their 90th season in franchise history during the 2023 season with a commemorative logo and jersey patch. The inspiration for the patch is an homage to their logo from 1961 to 1969, which is also honored in the WCF memorial logo and the 60th commemorative season logo.<ref>{{cite news |title=Detroit Lions celebrate 90th season with commemorative logo, jersey patch |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/detroit/news/detroit-lions-celebrate-90th-season-with-commemorative-logo-jersey-patch/ |date=April 12, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230424094858/https://www.cbsnews.com/detroit/news/detroit-lions-celebrate-90th-season-with-commemorative-logo-jersey-patch/ |archive-date=April 24, 2023 |url-status=live |work=[[CBS Detroit]] |last1=Buczek |first1=Joseph |access-date=April 20, 2023}}</ref> On June 21, 2023, the Lions unveiled an alternate blue helmet. The helmet, which features the 1960s logo, was paired with the grey uniform. This was the first time the Lions wore a blue helmet since 1955.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lions unveil new alternate helmet for 2023 season |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/lions-unveil-new-alternate-helmet-for-2023-season |website=[[National Football League]] |date=June 21, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230621233141/https://www.nfl.com/news/lions-unveil-new-alternate-helmet-for-2023-season |archive-date=June 21, 2023 |url-status=live |last1=Shook |first1=Nick |access-date=June 21, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Detroit Lions' alternate helmet a little something old, something new and something blue |url=https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2023/06/21/detroit-lions-unveil-alternate-helmet/70322590007/ |website=[[The Detroit News]] |date=June 21, 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230622130208/https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2023/06/21/detroit-lions-unveil-alternate-helmet/70322590007/ |archive-date=June 22, 2023 |url-status=live |last1=Rogers |first1=Justin |access-date=June 21, 2023}}</ref> On April 18, 2024, the Lions unveiled a new jersey set. The home jersey, referred to as "One Pride", features a redefined Honolulu blue with white block numbers trimmed in silver and sleeves striped in silver with white accents. The home jersey is paired with silver pants with Honolulu blue stripes with white accents or solid Honolulu blue pants. The road white jersey, referred to as "the 313", features Honolulu blue block numbers, stripes trimmed in silver, and a Honolulu blue "Detroit" wordmark on the front. The road jersey is paired with solid Honolulu blue or solid white pants. The primary silver helmet with a Honolulu blue face mask and Honolulu blue stripes with white accents is worn with the home and road jerseys. The black alternate jersey, referred to as "Motor City Muscle", features Honolulu blue numbers and stripes trimmed in silver along with a "Lions" wordmark on the front. It is worn with the alternate Honolulu blue helmet featuring black stripes with silver accents and the leaping lion logo in black with silver accents. The black jersey is paired with solid black or solid Honolulu blue pants.<ref name=Lions2024jerseys /><ref name=CBSLions2024jerseys/> The black jersey was a favorite of head coach [[Dan Campbell]], who wore the original version during his playing days. According to Lions team president [[Rod Wood]], it was Campbell who lobbied for the black jersey to return, which happened after the Lions won the NFC North division title in [[2023 Detroit Lions season|2023]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Dan Campbell pushed for Lions' black alternate jerseys to return |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/dan-campbell-pushed-for-lions-black-alternate-jerseys-to-return |date=April 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240422064215/https://www.nfl.com/news/dan-campbell-pushed-for-lions-black-alternate-jerseys-to-return |archive-date=April 22, 2024 |url-status=live |work=[[National Football League]] |last1=Patra |first1=Kevin |access-date=April 23, 2024}}</ref> The throwback jersey was retained and updated with the refreshed Honolulu blue. The throwback jersey is paired with a silver helmet that is worn with a silver or a Honolulu blue face mask. The William Clay Ford (WCF) memorial decal has been placed on the back of the primary and alternate helmets.<ref name=Lions2024jerseys /><ref name=CBSLions2024jerseys>{{cite news |title=Detroit Lions unveil 2024 modern uniforms, including black alternate |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/detroit/news/detroit-lions-unveil-new-2024-uniforms/ |date=April 18, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240419194723/https://www.cbsnews.com/detroit/news/detroit-lions-unveil-new-2024-uniforms/ |archive-date=April 19, 2024 |url-status=live |work=[[CBS Detroit]] |last1=Booth-Singleton |first1=DeJanay |access-date=April 23, 2024}}</ref> Throughout the 2024 season, the silver pants were only worn once (a Week 2 defeat against the [[2024 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Tampa Bay Buccaneers]]), and the throwbacks were not worn at all. Instead, they mainly wore either the all-blue or all-white uniforms, with the Lions winning all of their regular season games in either combination.<ref>{{citation|title=Detroit Lions 2024 uniform combinations|url=https://www.gridiron-uniforms.com/GUD/controller/controller.php?action=teams-season&team_id=DET&year=2024|publisher=The Gridiron Uniforms Database|access-date=January 26, 2025}}</ref> The throwback uniforms were initially scheduled to wear in Week 18 against the [[2024 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]], but the Lions decided to wear their all-black alternate uniforms instead. Detroit went 2β1 in the all-black uniforms.<ref>{{cite news |title=Lions Tease Wearing Black Uniforms for Showdown With Vikings |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-tease-wearing-black-uniforms-for-vikings-week-eighteen |date=January 1, 2025 |work=[[Sports Illustrated]] |last1=Booher |first1=Christian |access-date=January 26, 2025}}</ref> ==Thanksgiving Day tradition== [[File:DetroitLionsRunningPlay-2007.jpg|175px|thumb|right|The Lions, seen here during the 2007 Thanksgiving game against their division rival [[Green Bay Packers]], have played on Thanksgiving since 1934 with the exception of the years during [[World War II]].]] In 1934, then team owner [[George A. Richards]], who also was the owner of a major radio affiliate of the NBC [[Blue Network]], [[WJR]] in Detroit, the forerunner to today's [[American Broadcasting Company|ABC]], negotiated [[NFL on NBC Radio|an agreement with NBC]] to carry his Thanksgiving game live across all of the network's stations.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Jaworowski |first=Matt |date=November 24, 2016 |title=Timeline: How football became a Thanksgiving tradition |publisher=[[WIVB-TV]] |url=https://www.wivb.com/news/timeline-how-football-became-a-thanksgiving-tradition/ |url-status=live |access-date=November 24, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200926022038/https://www.wivb.com/news/timeline-how-football-became-a-thanksgiving-tradition/ |archive-date=September 26, 2020}}</ref> Excluding the years of 1939β1944, due to [[World War II]], the Lions have played on [[NFL on Thanksgiving Day|Thanksgiving]] ever since.<ref name="Beach">{{cite web |title=Why Do The Lions Always Play On Thanksgiving Day? |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/jerrybeach/2018/11/22/why-do-the-lions-always-play-on-thanksgiving-day/#6523ce996c69 |website=[[Forbes]] |date=November 22, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191020202500/https://www.forbes.com/sites/jerrybeach/2018/11/22/why-do-the-lions-always-play-on-thanksgiving-day/#6523ce996c69 |archive-date=October 20, 2019 |url-status=live |last1=Beach |first1=Jerry |access-date=October 23, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Why Detroit Lions, Dallas Cowboys always play on Thanksgiving: What to know about football tradition |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2023/12/20/nfl-thanksgiving-day-games-history-lions-cowboys/10716916002/ |website=[[USA Today]] |date=December 20, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240208124710/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2023/12/20/nfl-thanksgiving-day-games-history-lions-cowboys/10716916002/ |archive-date=February 8, 2024 |url-status=live |last1=Reineking |first1=Jim |access-date=February 8, 2024}}</ref> ==Players of note== {{Main|List of Detroit Lions players}} ===Current roster=== {{Detroit Lions roster}} [[File:Calvin Johnson (cropped).png|thumb|upright|[[Calvin Johnson]]]] [[File:LaynewithLions.jpg|thumb|upright|[[Bobby Layne]]]] [[File:Barry Sanders 2019.jpg|thumb|upright|[[Barry Sanders]]]] [[File:CharlieSanders Detroit.jpg|thumb|upright|[[Charlie Sanders]]]] [[File:Joe Schmidt (Pitt).jpg|thumb|upright=0.6|[[Joe Schmidt (American football)|Joe Schmidt]]]] [[File:Doak Walker practicing (8679147364) (2).jpg|thumb|upright|[[Doak Walker]]]] ===Retired numbers=== {| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" | colspan="5" style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions|border=2}}"|'''Detroit Lions retired numbers''' |- ! width=40px style="{{NFLAltPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions}}"|No. ! width=150px style="{{NFLAltPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions}}"|Player ! width=100px style="{{NFLAltPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions}}"|Position ! width=100px style="{{NFLAltPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions}}"|Tenure ! width=170px style="{{NFLAltPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions}}"|Retired |- | '''7''' || [[Dutch Clark]] || [[Quarterback#History|B]] || 1931β1932<br/>1934β1938 || October 15, 1939<ref name="DetroitLionsFacts"/><ref>{{Cite book |last=Willis |first=Chris |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HpbhdBDgSiYC |title=Dutch Clark: The Life of an NFL Legend and the Birth of the Detroit Lions |publisher=The Scarecrow Press, Inc. |year=2012 |isbn=978-0810885202 |page=[https://books.google.com/books?id=HpbhdBDgSiYC&dq=dutch+clark%27s+number+was+retired+on&pg=PA277 277] |access-date=January 20, 2020 |archive-date=April 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240423162347/https://books.google.com/books?id=HpbhdBDgSiYC |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Cleveland Rams at Detroit Lions β October 15th, 1939 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/193910150det.htm |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191021120629/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/193910150det.htm |archive-date=October 21, 2019 |url-status=live |access-date=January 20, 2020}}</ref> |- | rowspan=3| '''20''' || [[Lem Barney]] || [[Cornerback|CB]] || 1967β1977 || rowspan=3| November 25, 2004<ref name="#20 retired">{{cite news |title=Lions have 20β20β20 vision |url=https://www.toledoblade.com/Pro/2004/11/26/Lions-have-20-20-20-vision.html |date=November 26, 2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191019000052/https://www.toledoblade.com/Pro/2004/11/26/Lions-have-20-20-20-vision.html |archive-date=October 19, 2019 |url-status=live |work=[[Toledo Blade]] |last1=Hackenberg |first1=Dave |access-date=October 18, 2019}}</ref> |- | [[Billy Sims]] || [[Running back|RB]] || 1980β1984 |- | [[Barry Sanders]] || [[Running back|RB]] || 1989β1998 |- | '''22''' || [[Bobby Layne]] || [[Quarterback|QB]], [[Placekicker|K]] || 1950β1958 || <ref name="DetroitLionsFacts"/> |- | '''37''' || [[Doak Walker]] || [[Halfback (American football)|HB]], [[Placekicker|K]], [[Punter (football)|P]] || 1950β1955 || December 11, 1955<ref name="DetroitLionsFacts"/><ref>{{cite news |title=Lions Hold 'Day' For Walker Sunday |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/14988328/lions_to_hold_day_for_walker_sunday/ |date=December 7, 1955 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191228140459/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/14988328/lions_to_hold_day_for_walker_sunday/ |archive-date=December 28, 2019 |url-status=live |work=[[Detroit Free Press]] |last1=Berson |first1=Jake |page=7 |access-date=January 20, 2020 |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Northard |first=Lloyd |date=December 12, 1955 |title=Lions Honor Doak: Walker Hangs Up NFL Cleats, Scoring Title |page=4 |work=Brownwood (TX) Bulletin |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/14990062/walker_hangs_up_nfl_cleats_scoring/ |url-status=live |access-date=January 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191228063015/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/14990062/walker_hangs_up_nfl_cleats_scoring/ |archive-date=December 28, 2019 |via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> |- | '''56''' || [[Joe Schmidt (American football)|Joe Schmidt]] <sup>1</sup> || [[Linebacker|LB]] || 1953β1965 || <ref name="DetroitLionsFacts"/> |- | '''85''' || [[Chuck Hughes]] <sup>2</sup> || [[Wide receiver|WR]] || 1970β1971 || <ref name="DetroitLionsFacts"/> |} '''Notes:''' * <sup>1</sup> The No. 56 was temporarily unretired with Schmidt's blessing when the Lions acquired linebacker [[Pat Swilling]] from the [[New Orleans Saints]]. No player has worn it since Swilling left.<ref>{{cite news |title=O'HARA: Top 4 jersey numbers in franchise history |url=https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-top-4-jersey-numbers-in-franchise-history |date=July 23, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200813001019/https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-top-4-jersey-numbers-in-franchise-history |archive-date=August 13, 2020 |url-status=live |work=Detroit Lions |last1=O'Hara |first1=Mike |access-date=July 14, 2020}}</ref> * <sup>2</sup> Posthumous. Hughes died of a heart attack during a game on October 24, 1971, and his No. 85 was withdrawn from circulation.<ref name="DetroitLionsFacts"/><ref>{{multiref2 |1={{Cite web |date=October 25, 1971 |title=Detroit Lions Player Dies After Collapsing on Field |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1971/10/25/archives/detroit-lions-player-dies-after-collapsing-on-field-pro-player-dies.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190421144207/https://www.nytimes.com/1971/10/25/archives/detroit-lions-player-dies-after-collapsing-on-field-pro-player-dies.html |archive-date=April 21, 2019 |access-date=October 18, 2019 |website=The New York Times}} |2={{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Les |date=December 5, 2013 |title=Football Thursday: Legacy of Chuck Hughes goes deeper than being only NFL player to die on field during a game |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/news/nfl--legacy-of-chuck-hughes-goes-deeper-than-being-only-nfl-player-to-die-on-field-135805723.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190421144209/https://sports.yahoo.com/news/nfl--legacy-of-chuck-hughes-goes-deeper-than-being-only-nfl-player-to-die-on-field-135805723.html |archive-date=April 21, 2019 |access-date=October 18, 2019 |website=Yahoo Sports}} |3={{Cite web |last=Dow |first=Bill |date=October 24, 2011 |title=40 years ago Lions receiver Chuck Hughes died on Tiger Stadium gridiron |url=https://www.vintagedetroit.com/blog/2011/10/24/40-years-ago-lions-receiver-chuck-hughes-died-on-tiger-stadium-gridiron/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191019104458/https://www.vintagedetroit.com/blog/2011/10/24/40-years-ago-lions-receiver-chuck-hughes-died-on-tiger-stadium-gridiron/ |archive-date=October 19, 2019 |access-date=October 19, 2019 |website=Vintage Detroit}} }}</ref> Over the years, however, the number would return to circulation.<ref>{{cite web |title=All Players To Wear Number 85 For Detroit Lions |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/uniform.cgi?number=85&team=det |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250108105334/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/uniform.cgi?number=85&team=det |archive-date=January 8, 2025 |url-status=live |access-date=October 18, 2019}}</ref> '''Special cases''' * The Lions retired No. 93 for the 2009 season after [[Corey Smith (American football)|Corey Smith]] disappeared, presumed dead, when a boat he was fishing in with friends capsized off the Florida coast.<ref name="coreysmith">{{cite news |title=Detroit Lions to retire Smith's No. 93 for 2009 season |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=4003668 |date=March 21, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180805112635/http://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=4003668 |archive-date=August 5, 2018 |url-status=live |work=[[ESPN]] |agency=[[Associated Press]] |access-date=March 21, 2009}}</ref> The Lions also wore 93 decals on their helmets that season.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lone survivor of boating accident that killed Lions' Corey Smith recounts tragedy for HBO Sports |url=https://www.mlive.com/lions/2009/08/lone_survivor_of_boating_accid.html |website=[[MLive]] |date=April 4, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191019004014/https://www.mlive.com/lions/2009/08/lone_survivor_of_boating_accid.html |archive-date=October 19, 2019 |url-status=live |last1=VanOchten |first1=Brian |access-date=October 18, 2019}}</ref> The number was assigned to [[Kyle Vanden Bosch]] in 2010.<ref>{{cite web |title=Kyle Vanden Bosch Will Wear No. 93 |url=https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2010/3/5/1358617/kyle-vanden-bosch-will-wear-no-93 |website=[[Pride of Detroit]] |date=March 5, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191019002605/https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2010/3/5/1358617/kyle-vanden-bosch-will-wear-no-93 |archive-date=October 19, 2019 |url-status=live |last1=Yuille |first1=Sean |access-date=October 18, 2019}}</ref> ===Pro Football Hall of Fame members=== {{Main|List of Detroit Lions in the Pro Football Hall of Fame}} ===Pride of the Lions=== {{Main|Pride of the Lions}} ===75th Season All-Time Team=== On November 9, 2008, the Lions honored the 75th Season All-Time Team during halftime against the [[Jacksonville Jaguars]].<ref name="75th team revealed">{{cite web |title=Lions unveil 75th Season All-Time team |url=https://www.mlive.com/lions/2008/10/lions_unveil_75th_season_allti.html |website=[[MLive]] |date=October 31, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191020163256/https://www.mlive.com/lions/2008/10/lions_unveil_75th_season_allti.html |archive-date=October 20, 2019 |url-status=live |last1=Kowalski |first1=Tom |access-date=October 20, 2019}}</ref><ref name="Chaney">{{cite web |title=Lions honor 75th anniversary team at halftime |url=https://www.mlive.com/lions/2008/11/lions_honor_75th_anniversary_t.html |website=[[MLive]] |date=November 10, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191020163258/https://www.mlive.com/lions/2008/11/lions_honor_75th_anniversary_t.html |archive-date=October 20, 2019 |url-status=live |last1=Chaney |first1=Jeff |access-date=October 20, 2019}}</ref> The team was chosen via an online fan poll and selection committee.<ref name="75th team revealed"/> '''Bold''' indicates those elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. {| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" | colspan="5" style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions|border=2}}"|'''75th Season All-Time Team''' |- ! width=60px style="{{NFLAltPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions}}"|No. ! width=170px style="{{NFLAltPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions}}"|Player ! width=100px style="{{NFLAltPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions}}"|Position ! width=100px style="{{NFLAltPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions}}"|Tenure |- | '''6''' || [[Jim Arnold (American football)|Jim Arnold]] || [[Punter (football)|P]] || 1986β1993 |- | '''60''' || [[Al Baker]] || [[Defensive end|DE]] || 1978β1982 |- | '''20''' || '''[[Lem Barney]]''' || [[Cornerback|CB]] || 1967β1977 |- | '''36''' || [[Bennie Blades]] || [[Defensive back|DB]] || 1988β1996 |- | '''75''' || [[Lomas Brown]] || [[Tackle (American football)|T]] || 1985β1995 |- | '''76''' || [[Roger Brown (defensive tackle)|Roger Brown]] || [[Defensive tackle|DT]] || 1960β1966 |- | '''19, 24''' || '''[[Jack Christiansen]]''' || [[Defensive back|DB]] || 1951β1958 |- | '''7, 12, 19''' || '''[[Dutch Clark]]''' || [[Quarterback|QB]] || 1931β1932 <br/>1934β1938 |- | '''89''' || [[Gail Cogdill]] || [[Wide receiver|WR]] || 1960β1968 |- | '''76''' || '''[[Lou Creekmur]]''' || [[Guard (American football)|G]]/[[Tackle (American football)|T]] || 1950β1959 |- | '''25''' || [[Jim David (American football)|Jim David]] || [[Defensive back|DB]] || 1952β1959 |- | '''44''' || [[Don Doll]] || [[Defensive back|DB]] || 1949β1952 |- | '''78''' || [[Doug English]] || [[Defensive tackle|DT]] || 1975β1985 |- | '''54''' || [[Ed Flanagan (American football)|Ed Flanagan]] || [[Center (gridiron football)|C]] || 1965β1974 |- | '''53''' || [[Kevin Glover]] || [[Center (gridiron football)|C]] || 1985β1997 |- | '''75''' || [[John Gordy]] || [[Guard (American football)|OG]] || 1957β1967 |- | '''23''' || [[Mel Gray (return specialist)|Mel Gray]] || [[Return specialist|KR]]/[[Return specialist|PR]] || 1989β1994 |- | '''4''' || [[Jason Hanson]] <sup>1</sup> || [[Placekicker|K]] || 1992β2012 |- | '''71''' || '''[[Alex Karras]]''' || [[Defensive tackle|DT]] || 1958β1962 <br/>1964β1970 |- | '''81''' || '''[[Night Train Lane|Dick "Night Train" Lane]]''' || [[Cornerback|CB]] ||1960β1965 |- | '''28''' || '''[[Yale Lary]]''' || [[Defensive back|DB]], [[Punter (football)|P]] ||1952β1953<br/>1956β1964 |- | '''22''' || '''[[Bobby Layne]]''' || [[Quarterback|QB]] || 1950β1958 |- | '''24, 44''' || '''[[Dick LeBeau]]''' || [[Defensive back|DB]] || 1959β1972 |- | '''84''' || [[Herman Moore]] || [[Wide receiver|WR]] || 1991β2001 |- | '''3''' || [[Eddie Murray (American football)|Eddie Murray]] || [[Placekicker|K]] || 1980β1991 |- | '''91''' || [[Robert Porcher]] || [[Defensive end|DE]] || 1992β2003 |- | '''20''' || '''[[Barry Sanders]]''' || [[Running back|RB]] || 1989β1998 |- | '''88''' || '''[[Charlie Sanders]]''' || [[Tight end|TE]] || 1968β1977 |- | '''30''' || [[Cory Schlesinger]] || [[Fullback (gridiron football)|FB]] || 1995β2006 |- | '''56''' || '''[[Joe Schmidt (American football)|Joe Schmidt]]''' || [[Linebacker|LB]] || 1953β1965 |- | '''66''' || [[Harley Sewell]] || [[Guard (American football)|OG]] || 1953β1962 |- | '''20''' || [[Billy Sims]] || [[Running back|RB]] || 1980β1984 |- | '''54''' || [[Chris Spielman]] || [[Linebacker|LB]] || 1988β1995 |- | '''37''' || '''[[Doak Walker]]''' || [[Halfback (American football)|HB]] || 1950β1955 |- | '''55''' || [[Wayne Walker (linebacker)|Wayne Walker]] || [[Linebacker|LB]] || 1958β1972 |- | '''30, 50''' || '''[[Alex Wojciechowicz]]''' || [[Center (gridiron football)|C]], [[Linebacker|LB]] || 1938β1946 |- |} '''Note:''' * <sup>1</sup> Hanson was active at the time of the selection.<ref name=Chaney/> ===Lions All-Time Team=== On September 29, 2019, the Lions honored their All-Time Team in celebration of the NFL's centennial during halftime against the [[Kansas City Chiefs]]. The team was chosen via fan voting, contributions from the Detroit Lions Legends Community, team executives, and select members of the media.<ref name="Bianchi">{{cite news |title=Lions honor 39 players as greatest in franchise history |url=https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/09/29/lions-honor-39-players-as-greatest-in-franchise-history/3813583002/ |date=September 29, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191020221136/https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/09/29/lions-honor-39-players-as-greatest-in-franchise-history/3813583002/ |archive-date=October 20, 2019 |url-status=live |work=[[The Detroit News]] |last1=Bianchi |first1=Nolan |access-date=October 20, 2019}}</ref> '''Bold''' indicates those elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. {| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" | colspan="5" style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions|border=2}}"|'''Lions All-Time Team''' |- ! width=60px style="{{NFLAltPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions}}"|No. ! width=170px style="{{NFLAltPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions}}"|Player ! width=100px style="{{NFLAltPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions}}"|Position ! width=100px style="{{NFLAltPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions}}"|Tenure |- | '''60''' || [[Al Baker]] || [[Defensive end|DE]] || 1978β1982 |- | '''20''' || '''[[Lem Barney]]''' || [[Cornerback|CB]] || 1967β1977 |- | '''36''' || [[Bennie Blades]] || [[Defensive back|DB]] || 1988β1996 |- | '''75''' || [[Lomas Brown]] || [[Tackle (American football)|T]] || 1985β1995 |- | '''76''' || [[Roger Brown (defensive tackle)|Roger Brown]] || [[Defensive tackle|DT]] || 1960β1966 |- | '''19, 24''' || '''[[Jack Christiansen]]''' || [[Defensive back|DB]] || 1951β1958 |- | '''7, 12, 19''' || '''[[Dutch Clark]]''' || [[Quarterback|QB]] || 1931β1932 <br/>1934β1938 |- | '''89''' || [[Gail Cogdill]] || [[Wide receiver|WR]] || 1960β1968 |- | '''76''' || '''[[Lou Creekmur]]''' || [[Guard (American football)|G]]/[[Tackle (American football)|T]] || 1950β1959 |- | '''25''' || [[Jim David (American football)|Jim David]] || [[Defensive back|DB]] || 1952β1959 |- | '''44''' || [[Don Doll]] || [[Defensive back|DB]] || 1949β1952 |- | '''7, 20, 56''' || [[Ox Emerson]] || [[Guard (American football)|G]], [[Center (gridiron football)|C]], [[Linebacker|LB]] || 1931β1937 |- | '''78''' || [[Doug English]] || [[Defensive tackle|DT]] || 1975β1985 |- | '''54''' || [[Ed Flanagan (American football)|Ed Flanagan]] || [[Center (gridiron football)|C]] || 1965β1974 |- | '''53''' || [[Kevin Glover]] || [[Center (gridiron football)|C]] || 1985β1997 |- | '''23''' || [[Mel Gray (return specialist)|Mel Gray]] || [[Return specialist|KR]]/[[Return specialist|PR]] || 1989β1994 |- | '''4''' || [[Jason Hanson]] || [[Placekicker|K]] || 1992β2012 |- | '''81''' || '''[[Calvin Johnson]]''' || [[Wide receiver|WR]] || 2007β2015 |- | '''71''' || '''[[Alex Karras]]''' || [[Defensive tackle|DT]] || 1958β1962 <br/> 1964β1970 |- | '''81''' || '''[[Night Train Lane|Dick "Night Train" Lane]]''' || [[Cornerback|CB]] ||1960β1965 |- | '''28''' || '''[[Yale Lary]]''' || [[Defensive back|DB]], [[Punter (football)|P]] ||1952β1953<br/>1956β1964 |- | '''22''' || '''[[Bobby Layne]]''' || [[Quarterback|QB]] || 1950β1958 |- | '''24, 44''' || '''[[Dick LeBeau]]''' || [[Defensive back|DB]] || 1959β1972 |- | '''53''' || [[Mike Lucci]] || [[Linebacker|LB]] || 1965β1973 |- | '''84''' || [[Herman Moore]] || [[Wide receiver|WR]] || 1991β2001 |- | '''48''' || [[Don Muhlbach]] <sup>1</sup> || [[Long snapper|LS]] || 2004β2020 |- | '''33''' || [[Nick Pietrosante]] || [[Fullback (gridiron football)|FB]] || 1959β1965 |- | '''91''' || [[Robert Porcher]] || [[Defensive end|DE]] || 1992β2003 |- | '''20''' || '''[[Barry Sanders]]''' || [[Running back|RB]] || 1989β1998 |- | '''88''' || '''[[Charlie Sanders]]''' || [[Tight end|TE]] || 1968β1977 |- | '''30''' || [[Cory Schlesinger]] || [[Fullback (gridiron football)|FB]] || 1995β2006 |- | '''56''' || '''[[Joe Schmidt (American football)|Joe Schmidt]]''' || [[Linebacker|LB]] || 1953β1965 |- | '''66''' || [[Harley Sewell]] || [[Guard (American football)|OG]] || 1953β1962 |- | '''20''' || [[Billy Sims]] || [[Running back|RB]] || 1980β1984 |- | '''54''' || [[Chris Spielman]] || [[Linebacker|LB]] || 1988β1995 |- | '''9''' || [[Matthew Stafford]] <sup>1</sup> || [[Quarterback|QB]] || 2009β2020 |- | '''63''' || '''[[Dick Stanfel]]''' || [[Offensive guard|OG]] || 1952β1955 |- | '''37''' || '''[[Doak Walker]]''' || [[Halfback (American football)|HB]] || 1950β1955 |- | '''30, 50''' || '''[[Alex Wojciechowicz]]''' || [[Center (gridiron football)|C]], [[Linebacker|LB]] || 1938β1946 |- |} '''Note:''' * <sup>1</sup> Stafford and Muhlbach were active at the time of the selection.<ref name=Bianchi/> ===Michigan Sports Hall of Fame=== {{Main|Michigan Sports Hall of Fame}} ==Staff== ===Current staff=== {{Detroit Lions staff}} ===Head coaches=== {{Main|List of Detroit Lions head coaches}} [[File:Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell.jpg|thumb|[[Dan Campbell]], the head coach of the Detroit Lions]] The Lions have had 30 head coaches throughout their franchise history. Their first head coach was [[Hal Griffen]], who compiled a 5β6β3 (.464) overall record with the team of [[1930 Detroit Lions season|1930]]. [[Wayne Fontes]] was the longest-tenured head coach in Lions history, serving from [[1988 Detroit Lions season|1988]] to [[1996 Detroit Lions season|1996]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Detroit Lions Head Coaches |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/coaches.htm |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114233556/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/coaches.htm |archive-date=January 14, 2021 |url-status=live |access-date=January 21, 2021}}</ref> The current head coach of the Lions is [[Dan Campbell]], who was hired on January 20, 2021.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lions agree to terms with Dan Campbell to become team's new head coach |url=https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-agree-to-terms-with-dan-campbell-to-become-team-s-new-head-coach |website=Detroit Lions |date=January 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210227201222/https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-agree-to-terms-with-dan-campbell-to-become-team-s-new-head-coach |archive-date=February 27, 2021 |url-status=live |access-date=September 29, 2021}}</ref> ===Offensive coordinators=== {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" |- ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions|border=2}};"|Name !! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions|border=2}};"|Tenure |- | No offensive coordinator ||1934β1966 |- | [[Bill McPeak]] ||1967β1972 |- | No offensive coordinator || 1973β1975 |- | [[Ken Shipp]] || 1976 |- | [[Ed Hughes]] || 1977 |- | [[Bob Schnelker]] || 1978β1981 |- | [[Ted Marchibroda]] || 1982β1983 |- | [[Bill Nelsen]] || 1984 |- | [[Bob Baker (American football)|Bob Baker]] || 1985β1988 |- | Dave Levy || 1991 |- | [[Dan Henning]] || 1992β1993 |- | Dave Levy || 1994 |- | [[Tom Moore (American football coach, born 1938)|Tom Moore]] || 1994β1996 |- | [[Sylvester Croom]] || 1997β2000 |- | [[Gary Moeller]] || 2000 |- | [[Maurice Carthon]] || 2001β2002 |- | [[Sherman Lewis]] || 2003β2004 |- | [[Ted Tollner]] || 2005 |- | [[Mike Martz]] || 2006β2007 |- | [[Jim Colletto]] || 2008 |- | [[Scott Linehan]] || 2009β2013 |- | [[Joe Lombardi]] || 2014β2015 |- | [[Jim Bob Cooter]] || 2015β2018 |- | [[Darrell Bevell]] || 2019β2020 |- | [[Anthony Lynn]] || 2021 |- | [[Ben Johnson (American football coach)|Ben Johnson]] || 2022β2024 |- |[[John Morton (American football)|John Morton]] |2025βpresent |} ===Defensive coordinators=== {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" |- ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions|border=2}};"|Name !! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions|border=2}};"|Tenure |- | No defensive coordinator || 1934β1951 |- | [[Buster Ramsey]] ||1952β1959 |- | No defensive coordinator || 1960 |- | [[Don Shula]] || 1961β1962 |- | No defensive coordinator || 1963β1966 |- | [[Jim David (American football)|Jim David]] || 1967β1972 |- | No defensive coordinator || 1973β1976 |- | [[Fritz Shurmur]] || 1977 |- | No defensive coordinator ||1978β1979 |- | [[Maxie Baughan]] ||1980β1982 |- | [[Ed Beard]] ||1983β1984 |- | [[Wayne Fontes]] ||1985β1988 |- | [[Woody Widenhofer]] ||1989β1992 |- | [[Hank Bullough]] ||1993 |- | [[Herb Paterra]] ||1994β1995 |- | [[Jim Eddy]] ||1996 |- | [[Larry Peccatiello]] ||1997β2000 |- | [[Vince Tobin]] ||2001 |- | [[Kurt Schottenheimer]] ||2002β2003 |- | [[Dick Jauron]] ||2004β2005 |- | [[Donnie Henderson]] ||2006 |- | [[Joe Barry]] ||2007β2008 |- | [[Gunther Cunningham]] ||2009β2013 |- | [[Teryl Austin]] ||2014β2017 |- | [[Paul Pasqualoni]] ||2018β2019 |- | [[Cory Undlin]] ||2020 |- | [[Aaron Glenn]] ||2021β2024 |- |[[Kelvin Sheppard]] |2025βpresent |} ===Special teams coordinators=== {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" |- ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions|border=2}};"|Name !! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions|border=2}};"|Tenure |- | [[John Bonamego]] ||2019 |- | [[Brayden Coombs]] ||2020 |- | [[Dave Fipp]] ||2021βpresent |} ==Rivalries== ===Divisional=== ====Chicago Bears==== {{Main|BearsβLions rivalry}} The Lions and [[Chicago Bears]] first met in 1930 when the Lions were known as the Portsmouth Spartans.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Larry |date=December 1, 2021 |title=Top 10: Longest series |url=https://www.chicagobears.com/photos/top-10-longest-series |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211206110534/https://www.chicagobears.com/photos/top-10-longest-series |archive-date=December 6, 2021 |access-date=June 7, 2024 |website=[[Chicago Bears]]}}</ref> The Bears and Lions have been division rivals since 1933.<ref name="1933 HOF">{{cite web |title=1933 β The NFL Changes Several Rules to Serve its Needs and Style of Play |url=https://www.profootballhof.com/football-history/football-history/1869-1939/1933/ |website=[[Pro Football Hall of Fame]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240417200407/https://www.profootballhof.com/football-history/football-history/1869-1939/1933/ |archive-date=April 17, 2024 |url-status=live |access-date=June 12, 2024}}</ref><ref name="1933 Standings">{{cite web |title=1933 NFL League Standings |url=https://www.nfl.com/standings/division/1933/reg/ |website=[[National Football League]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200516125716/https://www.nfl.com/standings/division/1933/reg/ |archive-date=May 16, 2020 |url-status=live |access-date=June 12, 2024}}</ref> As of the 2024 season, the Bears lead the series 105β80β5.<ref>{{cite web |title=All Matchups, Detroit Lions vs. Chicago Bears |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/game_query.cgi?tm1=det&tm2=chi&yr=all |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241224062053/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/game_query.cgi?tm1=det&tm2=chi&yr=all |archive-date=December 24, 2024 |url-status=live |access-date=October 22, 2019}}</ref> ====Green Bay Packers==== {{Main|LionsβPackers rivalry}} The Lions and [[Green Bay Packers]] first met in 1929 when the Lions were known as the Portsmouth Spartans.<ref name="Barnett"/><ref>{{cite web |title=1929 Portsmouth Spartans |url=https://www.profootballarchives.com/1929por.html |website=Pro Football Archives |access-date=December 3, 2024 |archive-date=June 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609213613/https://www.profootballarchives.com/1929por.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The Lions and Packers have been division rivals since 1933.<ref name="1933 HOF"/><ref name="1933 Standings"/><ref>{{cite web |title=NFL predictions: Historic matchups with 49ers-Rams & Lions-Packers |url=https://www.oklahoman.com/story/sports/columns/berry-tramel/2019/10/10/lambeau-field-the-la-coliseum-are-throwback-venues-in-the-nfl/60429516007/ |website=[[The Tennessean]] |date=October 10, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319172905/https://www.oklahoman.com/story/sports/columns/berry-tramel/2019/10/10/lambeau-field-the-la-coliseum-are-throwback-venues-in-the-nfl/60429516007/ |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |url-status=live |last1=Tramel |first1=Berry |access-date=March 19, 2024}}</ref> As of the 2024 season, the Packers lead the series 106β78β7.<ref>{{cite web |title=All Matchups, Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/game_query.cgi?tm1=det&tm2=gnb&yr=all |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319062809/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/game_query.cgi?tm1=det&tm2=gnb&yr=all |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |url-status=live |access-date=October 22, 2019}}</ref> ====Minnesota Vikings==== {{Main|LionsβVikings rivalry}} The Lions and [[Minnesota Vikings]] have played twice annually since the Vikings entered the NFL in 1961, excluding 1982 due to [[National Football League Players Association#1982 strike|the strike]] that occurred that season.<ref>{{cite web |title=Game Preview: Vikings at Lions |url=https://www.vikings.com/news/game-preview-vikings-at-lions-week-7 |website=[[Minnesota Vikings]] |date=October 15, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191023031443/https://www.vikings.com/news/game-preview-vikings-at-lions-week-7 |archive-date=October 23, 2019 |url-status=live |last1=Peters |first1=Craig |access-date=October 22, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Vikings Franchise Timeline |url=https://www.vikings.com/team/legends/timeline |website=[[Minnesota Vikings]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190816012724/https://www.vikings.com/team/legends/timeline |archive-date=August 16, 2019 |url-status=live |access-date=March 19, 2024}}</ref> As of the 2024 season, the Vikings lead the all-time series 80β45β2.<ref>{{cite web |title=All Matchups, Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/game_query.cgi?tm1=det&tm2=min&yr=all |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250108104905/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/game_query.cgi?tm1=det&tm2=min&yr=all|archive-date=January 8, 2025 |url-status=live |access-date=October 22, 2019}}</ref> ===Former=== ====Tampa Bay Buccaneers==== The Lions and the [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]] were also division opponents in the NFC Central from 1977 to 2001.<ref>{{cite web |title=Series History: Bucs-Lions |url=https://www.buccaneers.com/news/series-history-bucs-lions-14490348 |website=[[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]] |date=December 3, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191023031451/https://www.buccaneers.com/news/series-history-bucs-lions-14490348 |archive-date=October 23, 2019 |url-status=live |last1=Smith |first1=Scott |access-date=October 22, 2019}}</ref> As of the 2024 season, the Lions lead the all-time series 33β30.<ref>{{cite web |title=All Matchups, Detroit Lions vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/game_query.cgi?tm1=det&tm2=tam&yr=all |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240916111407/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/game_query.cgi?tm1=det&tm2=cle&yr=all |archive-date=September 16, 2024 |url-status=live |access-date=August 4, 2024}}</ref> ===Historic=== ====Cleveland Browns==== The Lions also share a rivalry with the [[Cleveland Browns]], which began in the 1950s when the Browns and Lions played each other in four NFL Championship Games. The Lions won three of those championships, while the Browns won one. This was one of the NFL's best rivalries in the 1950s.<ref>{{multiref2 |1={{Cite web |last=Shuck |first=Barry |date=November 19, 2021 |title=Origins of the "Great Lakes Classic" between the Browns and Lions |url=https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2021/11/19/22731360/origins-of-the-great-lakes-classic-between-the-browns-and-lions |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=Dawgs By Nature |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211119095851/https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2021/11/19/22731360/origins-of-the-great-lakes-classic-between-the-browns-and-lions |archive-date=November 19, 2021}} |2={{Cite web |last=Buttar |first=Simmi |title=Browns and Lions stood tall in 1950s |url=https://www.paducahsun.com/sports/general/browns-and-lions-stood-tall-in-1950s/article_7ce6e480-b041-59ff-9cb2-4f6772aa7b2d.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221127114248/https://www.paducahsun.com/sports/general/browns-and-lions-stood-tall-in-1950s/article_7ce6e480-b041-59ff-9cb2-4f6772aa7b2d.html |archive-date=November 27, 2022 |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=The Paducah Sun |agency=Associated Press |date=October 17, 2019 |language=en}} |3={{Cite web |last=Payton |first=Mike |date=November 18, 2021 |title=The history of Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns |url=https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/11/18/22788527/detroit-lions-cleveland-browns-history-rivalry-games-record |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211118123605/https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/11/18/22788527/detroit-lions-cleveland-browns-history-rivalry-games-record |archive-date=November 18, 2021 |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=Pride of Detroit |language=en}} |4={{Cite web |title=A look at the NFL in the fabulous 1950s |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2019/10/11/a-look-at-the-nfl-in-the-fabulous-1950s/40301077/ |date=October 11, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220602172446/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2019/10/11/a-look-at-the-nfl-in-the-fabulous-1950s/40301077/ |archive-date=June 2, 2022 |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=USA Today |agency=Associated Press |language=en-US}} }}</ref> Since the [[AFLβNFL merger]] of 1970, the teams have met much less frequently due to the Browns' move to the [[American Football Conference]] (AFC).<ref>{{cite web |title=Week 2 β Lions-Browns Rivalry |url=https://www.profootballhof.com/news/week-2-lions-browns-rivalry/ |website=[[Pro Football Hall of Fame]] |date=January 1, 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190417195407/https://www.profootballhof.com/news/week-2-lions-browns-rivalry/ |archive-date=April 17, 2019 |url-status=live |access-date=October 22, 2019}}</ref> From 2002 to 2014, the two teams played an annual preseason game known as the "Great Lakes Classic".<ref name="The Great Lakes Classic">{{cite news |url=http://www.morningjournal.com/articles/2009/11/22/sports/mj1925578.txt |title=Great Lakes Classic has lacked luster since its beginning |date=November 22, 2009 |access-date=March 21, 2009 |last=Schudel |first=Jeff |website=[[The Morning Journal]] |archive-date=September 3, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150903214811/http://www.morningjournal.com/general-news/20091122/great-lakes-classic-has-lacked-luster-since-its-beginning |url-status=live}}</ref> As of the 2024 season, the Lions lead the all-time series 19β6, with three of those wins coming in postseason play.<ref>{{cite web |title=All Matchups, Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/game_query.cgi?tm1=det&tm2=cle&yr=all |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240916111407/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/game_query.cgi?tm1=det&tm2=cle&yr=all |archive-date=September 16, 2024 |url-status=live |access-date=August 4, 2024}}</ref> ====Los Angeles Rams==== The Lions have played the [[Los Angeles Rams|Rams]] more than any other non-divisional team with 89 total matchups over the years dating back to 1937. In the [[2023β24 NFL playoffs|2023β24 playoffs]], the Rams and Lions met for their first postseason matchup since 1952. The Lions won 24β23 in Matthew Stafford's first game back in Detroit since being traded to the Rams.<ref name="g782">{{cite web |title=Column: Matthew Stafford loses the battle but wins the war in his duel with Jared Goff |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/story/2024-01-15/matthew-stafford-lost-battle-won-war-jared-goff-duel-rams-lions |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |date=January 15, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240804183417/https://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/story/2024-01-15/matthew-stafford-lost-battle-won-war-jared-goff-duel-rams-lions |archive-date=August 4, 2024 |url-status=live |last1=Plaschke |first1=Bill |access-date=August 4, 2024}}</ref> As of the 2024 season, the Rams lead the all-time series 45β43β1.<ref>{{cite web |title=All Matchups, Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland/St. Louis/LA Rams |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/game_query.cgi?tm1=det&tm2=ram&yr=all |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240916112039/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/game_query.cgi?tm1=det&tm2=ram&yr=all |archive-date=September 16, 2024 |url-status=live |access-date=August 4, 2024}}</ref> ==Radio and television== {{Main|List of Detroit Lions broadcasters}} [[File:Detroit Lions radio affiliates.png|thumb|right|Map of radio affiliates]] ===Radio=== {{Main|Detroit Lions Radio Network}} The Lions' [[Flagship (radio)|flagship]] radio station is [[WXYT-FM]].<ref name="stations">{{cite web |title=Lions Radio Affiliates |url=https://www.detroitlions.com/schedule/radio-affiliates |website=Detroit Lions |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210814223431/https://www.detroitlions.com/schedule/radio-affiliates |archive-date=August 14, 2021 |url-status=dead |access-date=June 30, 2019}}</ref> [[Dan Miller (sportscaster)|Dan Miller]] does [[play-by-play]], [[Lomas Brown]] does color commentary, and [[T. J. Lang]] is the sideline reporter.<ref name="Brown">{{Cite web |date=July 10, 2018 |title=WJR replaces Jim Brandstatter on Lions radio broadcasts with Lomas Brown |url=https://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20180710/news/665686/wjr-replaces-jim-brandstatter-on-lions-radio-broadcasts-with-lomas |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191023152411/https://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20180710/news/665686/wjr-replaces-jim-brandstatter-on-lions-radio-broadcasts-with-lomas |archive-date=October 23, 2019 |access-date=October 23, 2019 |website=Crain's Detroit Business}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Former Detroit Lions OL T.J. Lang joins radio broadcast team as sideline reporter |url=https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/former-detroit-lions-ol-tj-lang-joins-radio-broadcast-team-as-sideline-reporter.html |website=[[MLive]] |date=August 5, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210814224748/https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/08/former-detroit-lions-ol-tj-lang-joins-radio-broadcast-team-as-sideline-reporter.html |archive-date=August 14, 2021 |url-status=live |last1=Meinke |first1=Kyle |access-date=August 14, 2021}}</ref> In 2015, the team announced that they were moving from WXYT-FM to WJR for the [[2016 NFL season]], ending a 20-year relationship with [[CBS Radio]].<ref name="freepress-wjrmove">{{cite web |title=Want to listen to the Lions in 2016? Tune in to WJR-AM |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/11/19/detroit-lions-radio-broadcasts/76086598/ |website=[[Detroit Free Press]] |date=November 19, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151121090627/http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/11/19/detroit-lions-radio-broadcasts/76086598/ |archive-date=November 21, 2015 |url-status=live |last1=Birkett |first1=Dave |access-date=November 20, 2015}}</ref> The decision to part with WXYT was reportedly instigated by a demand by the team for the station to fire on-air personality [[Mike Valenti]], who has had a history of making critical comments about the Lions during his drivetime show, as a condition of any future renewal. A CBS Radio spokesperson stated that their refusal was meant to maintain the station's integrity.<ref name="freepress-wjrmove"/><ref name="detroitnews-censorship">{{cite news |title=CBS Detroit: Lions censorship demands caused split |url=https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/11/20/detroit-lions-radio-change/76103168/ |date=November 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151121085132/http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/11/20/detroit-lions-radio-change/76103168/ |archive-date=November 21, 2015 |url-status=live |work=[[The Detroit News]] |last1=Paul |first1=Tony |access-date=November 20, 2015}}</ref> The Lions' flagship station returned to WXYT-FM starting with the [[2021 Detroit Lions season|2021 season]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Detroit Lions changing radio homes in 2021, back to 97.1 The Ticket |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/12/18/detroit-lions-radio-flagship-97-1-the-ticket/3954327001/ |website=[[Detroit Free Press]] |date=December 18, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201218132025/https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/12/18/detroit-lions-radio-flagship-97-1-the-ticket/3954327001/ |archive-date=December 18, 2020 |url-status=live |last1=Birkett |first1=Dave |access-date=December 18, 2020}}</ref> ===TV=== ====Preseason==== {{Main|Detroit Lions Television Network}} In 2015, [[WJBK]] took over from [[WXYZ-TV]] as the flagship station for Lions preseason games.<ref>{{cite web |title=Notes: Lions preseason games moving to Fox 2 |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/05/08/detroit-lions-preseason-tv/27014447/ |website=[[Detroit Free Press]] |date=May 8, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191023152408/https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/05/08/detroit-lions-preseason-tv/27014447/ |archive-date=October 23, 2019 |url-status=live |last1=Birkett |first1=Dave |last2=Monarrez |first2=Carlos |access-date=October 23, 2019}}</ref> In 2024, the announcers were Jason Ross Jr. with play-by-play, [[Golden Tate]] with color commentary, and Dannie Rogers with sideline reports.<ref>{{cite web |title=Detroit Lions preseason TV broadcast team adds Golden Tate as analyst |url=https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-preseason-tv-broadcast-team-adds-golden-tate-as-analyst |website=Detroit Lions |date=August 1, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240801151543/https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-preseason-tv-broadcast-team-adds-golden-tate-as-analyst |archive-date=August 1, 2024 |url-status=live |access-date=August 1, 2024}}</ref> Games are produced by [[FanDuel Sports Network Detroit]].<ref name="Lions">{{Cite web |date=May 21, 2015 |title=FOX Sports Detroit, FOX2 become Lions' official TV partners |url=https://www.foxsports.com/detroit/story/fox-sports-detroit-fox2-become-lions-official-tv-partners-052115 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150525051835/http://www.foxsports.com/detroit/story/fox-sports-detroit-fox2-become-lions-official-tv-partners-052115 |archive-date=May 25, 2015 |access-date=May 21, 2015 |website=[[Fox Sports]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Do not adjust your television set: Fox Sports Detroit to change name ahead of Opening Day |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/2021/03/17/fox-sports-detroit-bally-sports-app-detroit-tigers-red-wings-pistons/4740186001/ |website=[[Detroit Free Press]] |date=March 17, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210814225904/https://www.freep.com/story/sports/2021/03/17/fox-sports-detroit-bally-sports-app-detroit-tigers-red-wings-pistons/4740186001/ |archive-date=August 14, 2021 |url-status=live |last1=Davis |first1=Tyler J. |access-date=August 14, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Ansar |last=Khan |title=Bally being rebranded as FanDuel Sports Network |url=https://www.mlive.com/redwings/2024/10/bally-being-rebranded-as-fanduel-sports-network.html |website=MLive |date=October 18, 2024 |access-date=December 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241208093302/https://www.mlive.com/redwings/2024/10/bally-being-rebranded-as-fanduel-sports-network.html |archive-date=December 8, 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref> ====Regular season==== Regular season games are broadcast regionally on [[NFL on Fox|Fox]], except when the Lions play an AFC team in Detroit, in which case the game airs regionally on [[NFL on CBS|CBS]]; however, since 2014, with the institution of the NFL's [[National Football League on United States television#Interconference games|"cross flex" broadcast rules]], any Lions game slated to air on Fox can be moved to CBS.<ref>{{cite web |title=Why People in Mississippi Have to Watch the Giants |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/19/sports/football/why-people-in-mississippi-have-to-watch-the-giants.html?smid=tw-nytsports&smtyp=cur |website=[[The New York Times]] |date=November 19, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210309052148/https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/19/sports/football/why-people-in-mississippi-have-to-watch-the-giants.html?smid=tw-nytsports&smtyp=cur |archive-date=March 9, 2021 |url-status=live |last1=Draper |first1=Kevin |access-date=October 23, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=2014 NFL Schedule: Flex games can now start in Week 5 |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/2014-nfl-schedule-flex-games-can-now-start-in-week-5-0ap2000000343369 |website=[[National Football League]] |date=April 23, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200607021500/https://www.nfl.com/news/2014-nfl-schedule-flex-games-can-now-start-in-week-5-0ap2000000343369 |archive-date=June 7, 2020 |url-status=live |last1=Rosenthal |first1=Gregg |access-date=October 23, 2019}}</ref> The [[NFL on Thanksgiving Day|Thanksgiving Day game]] in Detroit is always televised nationally, alternating between Fox in odd years and CBS in even years.<ref name=Beach/> In 2011, the Lions became the last NFC team to play on [[NBC]]'s ''[[NBC Sunday Night Football|Sunday Night Football]]'' since the network began airing Sunday night games in 2006.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lions-Saints on NBC Week 13 |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/11/21/lions-saints-on-nbc-week-13/ |website=[[Pro Football Talk]] |date=November 21, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190501202342/https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/11/21/lions-saints-on-nbc-week-13/ |archive-date=May 1, 2019 |url-status=live |last1=Smith |first1=Michael David |access-date=October 23, 2019}}</ref> ====Blackouts==== {{Main|National Football League television blackout policies}} The Lions' winless performance in 2008 and 2β14 season in 2009, coupled with the effects of the [[Great Recession in the United States|Great Recession]] in Michigan, led to several local broadcast blackouts, as local fans did not purchase enough tickets by the 72-hour blackout deadline. The first blackout in the then seven-year history of [[Ford Field]] was on October 26, 2008, against the [[2008 Washington Redskins season|Washington Redskins]]. The previous 50 regular season home games had been sellouts.<ref>{{cite news |title=It's official: Lions' game will be blacked out |url=https://www.mlive.com/lions/2008/10/its_official_the_blackout_stre.html |date=October 23, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191023213647/https://www.mlive.com/lions/2008/10/its_official_the_blackout_stre.html |archive-date=October 23, 2019 |url-status=live |work=[[MLive]] |last1=Kowalski |first1=Tom |access-date=October 23, 2019}}</ref> The second home game of the 2009 season in which the Lions broke the losing streak, also against the Redskins, was blacked out locally, as well as the comeback victory over the Cleveland Browns.<ref>{{cite news |title=Lions beat Redskins to snap 19-game losing streak; 'we got King Kong off our back' |url=https://www.mlive.com/lions/2009/09/detroit_lions_snap_19-game_los.html |date=September 28, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191023213643/https://www.mlive.com/lions/2009/09/detroit_lions_snap_19-game_los.html |archive-date=October 23, 2019 |url-status=live |work=[[MLive]] |last1=Kowalski |first1=Tom |access-date=October 23, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Lions-Browns blacked out in Detroit area |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/lions-browns-blacked-out-in-detroit-area |website=[[NBC Sports]] |date=November 19, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191023213646/https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2009/11/19/lions-browns-blacked-out-in-detroit-area/ |archive-date=October 23, 2019 |url-status=live |last1=Florio |first1=Mike |author-link=Mike Florio |access-date=August 4, 2024 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Stafford guides Lions to dramatic win over Browns |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d81467df2/article/stafford-guides-lions-to-dramatic-win-over-browns |website=[[National Football League]] |date=November 22, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191023213647/https://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d81467df2/article/stafford-guides-lions-to-dramatic-win-over-browns |archive-date=October 23, 2019 |url-status=dead |access-date=July 17, 2020 |agency=[[Associated Press]]}}</ref> The Lions had only one blackout in 2010, yet another Redskins game, which the Lions won 37β25.<ref>{{cite news |title=Detroit Lions' game on Sunday will be blacked out locally |url=http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2010/10/detroit_lions_game_on_sunday_w.html |date=October 28, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101030153023/http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2010/10/detroit_lions_game_on_sunday_w.html |archive-date=October 30, 2010 |url-status=live |work=[[MLive]] |last1=Kowalski |first1=Tom |access-date=October 29, 2010}}</ref> However, in 2015, the NFL suspended its blackout policies, meaning that all Lions games will be shown on local TV, regardless of tickets sold.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Grossman |first=Evan |date=March 26, 2015 |title=Why the NFL Finally Lifted Its Blackout Rules |url=https://www.mensjournal.com/adventure/why-the-nfl-finally-lifted-its-blackout-rules-20150326/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181229031202/https://www.mensjournal.com/adventure/why-the-nfl-finally-lifted-its-blackout-rules-20150326/ |archive-date=December 29, 2018 |access-date=December 28, 2018 |website=Men's Journal}}</ref> Games were also often blacked out at the Lions' previous home, the 80,000-seat [[Pontiac Silverdome]], despite winning seasons and the success and popularity of star players such as [[Barry Sanders]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Silverdome: The glory days |url=https://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/detroit-lions-at-silverdome-the-glory-days/article_c17089f2-9aec-575c-b6eb-9122c799c9fd.html |website=[[The Oakland Press]] |date=July 13, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191023213647/https://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/detroit-lions-at-silverdome-the-glory-days/article_c17089f2-9aec-575c-b6eb-9122c799c9fd.html |archive-date=October 23, 2019 |url-status=live |last1=Pasche |first1=Paula |access-date=October 23, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Best moments in Pontiac Silverdome history |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/10/29/pontiac-silverdome-memories/74835284/ |website=[[Detroit Free Press]] |date=October 29, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191023213646/https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/10/29/pontiac-silverdome-memories/74835284/ |archive-date=October 23, 2019 |url-status=live |last1=Schrader |first1=Steve |last2=McCollum |first2=Brian |last3=Manzullo |first3=Brian |access-date=October 23, 2019}}</ref> ==Lions cheerleaders== {{Main|Detroit Lions Cheerleaders}} On June 13, 2016, the Lions announced the addition of cheerleaders to the organization.<ref name="ESPNAnnouncement">{{cite web |title=Lions become one of final teams to add cheerleaders |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/16179000/detroit-lions-adding-cheerleaders-leaving-just-six-teams-them |website=[[ESPN]] |date=June 13, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160820090751/http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/16179000/detroit-lions-adding-cheerleaders-leaving-just-six-teams-them |archive-date=August 20, 2016 |url-status=live |last1=Rothstein |first1=Michael |access-date=June 13, 2016}}</ref> The team also announced that Rebecca Girard-Smoker, formerly the director of the Detroit Pistons dance team, would be the coach of the cheerleading squad. It marked the first time in over 40 years the team had an official cheerleading squad. The cheerleading squad is a part of the entertainment during football games, and active at community events.<ref name="OfficialAnnouncement">{{Cite press release |title=Detroit Lions to add cheerleaders |date=June 13, 2016 |publisher=NFL Enterprises |url=https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-to-add-cheerleaders-17250448 |language=en-US |access-date=July 14, 2020 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919151426/https://www.detroitlions.com/news/detroit-lions-to-add-cheerleaders-17250448 |archive-date=September 19, 2020 |website=DetroitLions.com}}</ref> ==See also== * [[NFL on Thanksgiving Day]] * [[Portsmouth Spartans]] ==References== '''Notes''' {{Reflist}} '''Bibliography''' * {{Cite book |last=Griffith |first=R. D. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=K2pvvE8K0HIC |title=To the NFL: You Sure Started Somethin': A Historical Guide of All 32 NFL Teams and the Cities They've Played In |publisher=Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc. |year=2012 |isbn=978-1-4349-1762-1 |access-date=November 25, 2016}} ==External links== {{commons category|Detroit Lions}} * {{Official website}} * [https://www.nfl.com/teams/detroit-lions/ Detroit Lions] at the [[National Football League]] official website * [https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/index.htm Franchise Encyclopedia] at [[Pro Football Reference]] {{Detroit Lions}} {{Navboxes |titlestyle = {{NFLPrimaryStyle|Detroit Lions|border=2}} |list = {{s-start}} {{s-bef|before = [[New York Giants]]}} {{s-ttl|title = [[List of NFL champions (1920β1969)|NFL]] champions|years = [[1935 NFL Championship Game|1935]]}} {{s-aft|after = [[Green Bay Packers]]}} {{s-bef|before = [[Los Angeles Rams]]}} {{s-ttl|title = [[List of NFL champions (1920β1969)|NFL]] champions|years = [[1952 NFL Championship Game|1952]], [[1953 NFL Championship Game|1953]]}} {{s-aft|after = [[Cleveland Browns]]}} {{s-bef|before = [[New York Giants]]}} {{s-ttl|title = [[List of NFL champions (1920β1969)|NFL]] champions|years = [[1957 NFL Championship Game|1957]]}} {{s-aft|after = [[Indianapolis Colts|Baltimore Colts]]}} {{s-end}} {{Detroit Lions roster navbox}} {{NFL}} {{Michigan Sports}} {{Allen Park, Michigan}} }} {{Portal bar|American football|Michigan}} {{Authority control}} [[Category:Detroit Lions| ]] [[Category:1934 establishments in Michigan]] [[Category:American football teams established in 1934]] [[Category:American football teams in Detroit|Lions]] [[Category:American football teams in Michigan]] [[Category:Culture of Detroit]] [[Category:NFL teams]] [[Category:Sports in Pontiac, Michigan]]
Summary:
Please note that all contributions to Niidae Wiki may be edited, altered, or removed by other contributors. If you do not want your writing to be edited mercilessly, then do not submit it here.
You are also promising us that you wrote this yourself, or copied it from a public domain or similar free resource (see
Encyclopedia:Copyrights
for details).
Do not submit copyrighted work without permission!
Cancel
Editing help
(opens in new window)
Templates used on this page:
Template:Authority control
(
edit
)
Template:Cbignore
(
edit
)
Template:Citation
(
edit
)
Template:Cite book
(
edit
)
Template:Cite magazine
(
edit
)
Template:Cite news
(
edit
)
Template:Cite press release
(
edit
)
Template:Cite web
(
edit
)
Template:Commons category
(
edit
)
Template:Detroit Lions
(
edit
)
Template:Detroit Lions roster
(
edit
)
Template:Detroit Lions staff
(
edit
)
Template:Infobox NFL team
(
edit
)
Template:Main
(
edit
)
Template:Multiref2
(
edit
)
Template:NFLAltPrimaryStyle
(
edit
)
Template:NFLPrimaryStyle
(
edit
)
Template:Navboxes
(
edit
)
Template:Official website
(
edit
)
Template:Portal bar
(
edit
)
Template:Pp-vandalism
(
edit
)
Template:Reflist
(
edit
)
Template:See also
(
edit
)
Template:Short description
(
edit
)
Template:Use mdy dates
(
edit
)
Search
Search
Editing
Detroit Lions
Add topic
