The Detroit Lions and new head coach Dan Campbell, who was officially announced as the team’s new head coach on Wednesday, have agreed to a six-year contract, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
“With more than 20 years of experience as both a coach and player in the National Football League, Dan knows the rigors of professional football and what it takes to be successful. He will help promote the culture we want to establish across our organization, while also bringing with him high energy, a respect for the game and an identity with which everyone can align themselves,” Lions principal owner Sheila Ford Hamp said in an official statement.
Campbell, 44, takes over for Mat Patricia who was fired in November. Campbell had been serving as the assistant head coach and tight ends coach of the New Orleans Saints.
The Lions have finished last in the NFC North for the past three seasons and complied a 13-29-1 record during Patricia’s tenure at the helm.
Campbell is expected to bring fellow Saints assistant coach Aaron Glenn with him as defensive coordinator. Glenn has drawn interest from a number of other teams but reportedly is leaning towards joining the Lions.
“Dan’s passion for this opportunity was evident throughout our interview process,” Lions team president Rod Wood said in a statement. “When we began the search for a head coach, it was imperative that we find the right leader who values our commitment to building a winning culture based on organizational alignment and collaboration. The leadership Dan has exemplified throughout his football career has prepared him for this next step, and we are excited to support him as our new head coach.”
