The Detroit Lions announced today that Matt Patricia will be the team's next head coach.
Patricia was with the New England Patriots for the past 14 seasons, and was the defensive coordinator for the past five.
Despite the Patriots allowing 41 points in last night's Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, Patricia won three Super Bowls during his time in New England.
The Lions, who have never been to a Super Bowl, haven’t won a playoff game since 1991 and haven’t won a championship since 1957.
Bob Quinn, the team’s Executive Vice President and General Manager, is optimistic and believes in Patricia's ability to lead the team.
“Matt is driven to succeed, has extreme passion for the game and excels in preparation. He embodies the same hard-working, blue-collar attributes that represent our organization and the great City of Detroit,” Quinn said in a statement.
Patricia is also excited to adopt the team that went 0-16 just ten years ago.
“This position comes with great responsibility, and I will commit every ounce of my energy to this football team, starting today,” Patricia said in a statement.
Rumors began circulating online that the Lions wanted to hire Patricia as soon as the team fired Jim Caldwell at the end of the disappointing 9-7 regular season.
