After plenty of rebuilds that never paid off for the Detroit Lions, the one led by general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell has paid off-and quickly. From 3-13-1 in 2021, to above .500 in 2022 to making the NFC Championship Game in 2023. And it looks like the Lions are not going away as one of the best teams in the NFC, if not the league.
While player additions in free agency are top of mind this week, the Lions announced contract extensions for Holmes and Campbell on Thursday morning. The new deals will keep them with the team through the 2027 season.
"We are thrilled to have Brad and Dan under contract for the next four seasons," said Detroit Lions Principal Owner and Chair Sheila Hamp. "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."
Lions announce contract extensions for Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell
When he was hired in 2021, it was reported Campbell got a six-year contract. So his extension tacks one year on to that, and surely gives him a raise. Holmes presumably had a parallel original contract, so he's likely getting a raise and one year added too.
That said, Erik Schlitt of Pride of Detroit suggested Holmes is having two years added to his original deal.
I believe this equates to a 1-year extension for Campbell and a 2-year extension for Holmes (and likely a raise for both). The original deal for Speilman was not known but he gets a multi-year extension as well--which may as well be a lifetime contract the way he is valued. https://t.co/ZWttiJzbVm
— Erik Schlitt (@erikschlitt) March 14, 2024
The Lions also announced a "multi-year" extension with special assistant Chris Spielman, who has had an underrated influence on all aspects of the organization.
The Lions also announced that they have agreed to a multi-year extension with Special Assistant to the President/CEO and Chairperson Chris Spielman.
— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) March 14, 2024
"I could not be more proud of the work that Brad, Dan and Chris have done for our organization," said President and CEO Rod Wood. "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."
The Lions have finally found the right people to lead and cultivate their football operation, and it's not surprise they're being rewarded.