Fresh off their second-ever appearance in the NFC championship game, the Detroit Lions rewarded head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes with contract extensions through the 2027 season on Thursday.
The team did not announce financial terms.
“We are thrilled to have Brad and Dan under contract for the next four seasons,” said Sheila Hamp, the team’s principal owner and chair. “They have been the driving force behind the rebuild of our football team and the success that we have enjoyed. The continuity they provide for our football program will continue to be the key to our future success on the field.”
Seeking a total turnaround from the Matt Patricia era, when the Lions were 14-33-1, Hamp hired Holmes and Campbell before the 2021 season.
In that first campaign, the team was 3-13-1 as it worked to create an identity under the new coaching staff and new quarterback Jared Goff. A 9-8 season followed before the Lions won the NFC North with a 12-5 record and had a 24-7 lead on the San Francisco 49ers in the conference title game before losing 34-31.
Holmes, who went to Detroit from the Los Angeles Rams, is credited with building the Lions through strong draft picks, including Penei Sewell (2021, No. 7 overall), Alim McNeill (2021, No. 72 overall), Amon-Ra St. Brown (2021, No. 112 overall), Aidan Hutchinson (2022, No. 2 overall), Jameson Williams (2022, No. 12 overall), Kerby Joseph (2022, No. 97 overall), Jahmyr Gibbs (2023, No. 12 overall), Jack Campbell (2023, No. 18 overall), Sam LaPorta (2023, No. 34 overall) and Brian Branch (2023, No. 45 overall).
He was named NFL Executive of the Year in 2023 by the Pro Football Writers of America.
The team also announced an extension for Chris Spielman, a former standout linebacker for the Lions who serves as special assistant to Hamp and team president/CEO Ron Wood.
“I could not be more proud of the work that Brad, Dan and Chris have done for our organization,” Wood said. “They have selflessly worked together to build a winning culture within the Lions. I am excited to continue working with them to create the sustained success that we envision for the team, our fans, and the city of Detroit.”
–Field Level Media