The Detroit Lions will keep Jim Caldwell as their head coach in 2016, according to Lions reporter Tori Petry. The Lions hired New England Patriots director of pro scouting Bob Quinn to become their next general manager, and he has made his first major decision since joining the team in keeping Caldwell.
"It's clear to me that this team believes in him and responds positively to his leadership," said Quinn in a statement, via the Lions' team Twitter account. The Lions started the season with a 1-7 record and fired both their general manager and president after a crushing defeat against the Kansas City Chiefs. The Lions clearly turned it around following the move as they finished the season with a 6-2 record.
The Lions offense showed strong improvements under offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter, and he is expected to stay on the staff under Caldwell, according to NFL reporter Ian Rapoport. Quarterback Matthew Stafford's numbers clearly improved following the move, as he threw 19 touchdowns to just two interceptions in the second half of the season.
The Lions almost swept the Packers this season for the first time since 1991, but lost on a Hail Mary pass from Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Lions fans have dealt with their share of disappointments over the years, and with their star wide receiver Calvin Johnson seriously contemplating retirement many are worried in Detroit. The Lions haven't won a playoff game since 1991, but the addition of Quinn brings hope to Detroit that the he will bringing a winning-culture with him from New England. The Lions have a ton of offseason moves to make, and now that they have resolved their head coaching situation they can focus on player personnel.
