The Detroit Lions have long been one of the NFL’s most storied franchises, but not for the reasons fans might hope. With a history marked by decades of underperformance, the Lions were often seen as perennial underachievers, making only a handful of playoff appearances and rarely competing for championships. However, in recent years, the team has started to show signs of life, and it’s clear that a new era of hope is beginning to take shape in Detroit.
A Long History of Struggles
The Lions were founded in 1930 and became a part of the NFL in 1934. Over the years, they’ve had periods of success, including four NFL championships in 1952, 1953, and 1957, and an NFC Championship in 1991. Despite these moments of glory, the team’s overall trajectory has been one of mediocrity and frustration. They became infamous for their lack of playoff success, with a particularly painful 0-16 season in 2008, which remains the only winless season in modern NFL history.
For much of the 21st century, the Lions’ failures were a mixture of poor management, inconsistent coaching, and draft missteps. Even when the team had talented players like Calvin Johnson, Matthew Stafford, and Ndamukong Suh, they were unable to put it all together for a championship run. Fans grew accustomed to disappointment, with hopes rising only to be dashed in heartbreaking fashion year after year.
The Turning Point: Hiring Dan Campbell
The first real shift in the Lions’ fortunes came in 2021 with the hiring of head coach Dan Campbell. Known for his fiery personality and blue-collar mentality, Campbell was seen as a much-needed change from the more conservative, underwhelming coaching hires of the past. His approach emphasized toughness, accountability, and a shift in culture, aiming to build a foundation of grit and determination.
Campbell’s first season was a mixed bag of progress and growing pains. The team showed flashes of promise, with competitive losses and a never-say-die attitude, but the Lions finished with a 3-13-1 record. While the results weren’t there yet, Campbell’s leadership sparked hope in Detroit fans. He was building a team that fought until the final whistle, something that had been missing for years.
Building Through the Draft
One of the most important factors in the Lions’ resurgence has been their strategic approach to the draft. Under general manager Brad Holmes, the team has prioritized building a foundation with young, high-potential players. Holmes’s first draft in 2021 was a step in the right direction, with the Lions landing dynamic talents like Penei Sewell, a top offensive tackle, and linebacker Derek Barnes. The team’s 2022 draft saw them pick up standout players like Aidan Hutchinson, the No. 2 overall pick, who immediately made an impact on the defensive line.
The Lions have not only been successful in selecting top-tier talent but have also done a great job in developing these players. Hutchinson, in particular, has been a revelation, quickly becoming the leader of Detroit’s defense and a fan favorite. As the Lions continue to draft well, it’s clear that their future is brighter than ever.
The Emergence of Jared Goff
While the Lions’ success in the draft has been key, another important development has been the play of quarterback Jared Goff. After being traded to Detroit in 2021 as part of the deal that sent Matthew Stafford to the Los Angeles Rams, Goff was seen as a bridge quarterback at best. But over time, he’s proven to be more than just a stopgap. With Campbell’s system and the team’s improving offensive line, Goff has thrived. In 2022, he led the Lions to a top-5 offense in the NFL, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 29 touchdowns.
Though he’s not considered one of the league’s elite quarterbacks, Goff has become a steady, reliable leader who is capable of making big plays when it matters most. His ability to execute the offense with consistency has been a big part of the Lions’ offensive revival.
Rising to Contender Status
As of the 2023 season, the Detroit Lions have firmly entered the conversation as one of the NFL’s most promising teams. After a strong 2022 campaign that saw them narrowly miss the playoffs, the Lions are poised to contend for a division title. With a solid defense, an explosive offense, and a young, talented roster, they’re no longer seen as the league’s doormat. The team’s culture under Campbell has shifted, and the city of Detroit is once again filled with excitement about their football team.
What was once a franchise defined by its struggles and disappointments is now an organization on the rise. With a combination of strong leadership, young talent, and a dedicated fanbase, the Detroit Lions are showing that the long road back to relevance may finally be within reach. For the first time in decades, there’s a genuine sense of hope that the Lions could be on the brink of something special. Fans in Detroit have endured years of heartbreak, but now, the future looks much brighter. The Lions’ come-up is just beginning.
