Detroit Lions: Making the hard decisions creates contenders

Hard decisions mean a new direction

Now ultimately, in a season with very low expectations for the Lions, a bad snap or two by Scott Daly won’t mean anything. As a matter of fact, if Daly does take the field against the San Francisco 49ers in the opener, that will be his first regular-season appearance in the NFL.

Yet the important thing is the message that this transaction makes; no one is safe in the effort to build a winner. Produce or go home.

I don’t believe that the decision to release Muhlbach was made with that message in mind, but it certainly came across loud and clear.

In the long run, no one on this team is safe. Jared Goff will be the Lions quarterback this season, but if he doesn’t produce then he will be replaced. If Penei Sewell is a bust he will be sent packing.

Throughout the offseason and even here in training camp, the feedback from players has been very positive about coach Campbell and his staff. The results had been motivated players that are giving everything they have. Perhaps it’s time to dig a little deeper.

When we saw more poor tackling against the Steelers, just like the exhibition opener against Buffalo last week, or the missed opportunities by the offense in the first half, one would think there are many players who shouldn’t feel very safe right now.

Muhlbach’s release also answers all those pundits who consider Campbell to be nothing more than a clown. Those very same people questioned whether Campbell took his job seriously or would be a focused leader on the sidelines.

I don’t think there are any questions left about how serious Dan Campbell is about turning the Lions into winners and being committed to making Detroit contenders.

When Matthew Stafford was traded, despite the fact that it was at his request, my reaction was that even though I do like Stafford and wish him luck in Los Angeles, if the Lions win the Super Bowl, I don’t care who is playing quarterback.

Apparently, Dan Campbell feels the same way. That no matter who you are, if someone better comes along or you don’t produce, you will be replaced.

Making hard decisions means a willingness to chart a new course. The Lions have been on the same losing path for over 60 years and it’s time for a new direction. Will this course eventually lead to the Super Bowl? Only time will tell. But the willingness to strike out in a new direction at least creates an opportunity.