The Detroit Lions unveiled their new uniforms on Thursday night, which were designed to pay tribute to the team’s past, especially during the Barry Sanders era. While the updated uniforms did not bring about drastic changes, they included alternate options such as a black jersey called “Motor City Muscle,” reminiscent of the jerseys from 2004-07.
Detroit fans expressed concerns about the return of the black jerseys, which were worn during a lackluster period for the team under Matt Millen’s management. However, one person who appreciated those jerseys was Dan Campbell, the current head coach of the Lions. Having worn them himself when he played tight end for the team, Campbell suggested bringing them back after being appointed head coach in 2021.
At a uniform reveal event for season ticket holders at Ford Field, Lions team president Rod Wood shared that he had made a deal with Campbell regarding the black jerseys. The agreement was that if the team won a division title, they could come back. Last season, the Lions fulfilled their end of the deal by winning the NFC North and making a playoff appearance for the first time since 2016.
While it may have been jokingly phrased as “a reward” for their success, Wood clarified that
