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Detroit Lions hire Saints assistant Dan Campbell as new head coach

Campbell, Lions agree to reported 6-year deal

SYRACUSE, NY - NOVEMBER 08: Interim head coach Dan Campbell of the Miami Dolphins looks at the video board from the sidelines against the Buffalo Bills during the first quarter at Ralph Wilson Stadium on November 8, 2015 in Orchard Park, New York. Buffalo defeated Miami 33-17. (Photo by Rich Barnes/Getty Images) (Rich Barnes, 2015 Rich Barnes)

The Detroit Lions have agreed to a deal with New Orleans Saints assistant coach Dan Campbell to become the team’s next head coach, the team confirmed Wednesday.

Campbell replaces Matt Patricia, who was fired before the season ended, along with general manager Bob Quinn. Campbell is expected to bring fellow Saints assistant Aaron Glenn to Detroit as defensive coordinator.

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“This is an exciting day for our organization as we introduce Dan Campbell as the new head coach of the Detroit Lions. With more than 20 years of experience as both a coach and player in the National Football League, Dan knows the rigors of professional football and what it takes to be successful. He will help promote the culture we want to establish across our organization, while also bringing with him high energy, a respect for the game and an identity with which everyone can align themselves.”

Campbell has head coaching experience -- as an interim head coach for the Miami Dolphins in 2015. He went 5-7 during that stint. Since then, he’s been a top assistant on Sean Payton’s staff in New Orleans.

Campbell, 44, actually played tight end for the Lions from 2006 to 2008, appearing in 19 games. He was part of the infamous 0-16 season. He was also part of the Saints Super Bowl winning team in 2009-2010, but was injured before the season started that year and never played a game. He retired as a player after that season.

The Lions hired a general manager on Thursday, bringing in Brad Holmes, the college director of scouting for the L.A. Rams.

Related: The Lions not landing hometown favorite Robert Saleh is classic Lions

Detroit Lion's Dan Campbell (89) and quarterback Jon Kitna (8) celebrate after a first quarter touchdown. Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions Ford Field (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) (Leon Halip WireImage 2006)

About the Author
Ken Haddad headshot

Ken Haddad is the digital content manager for WDIV / ClickOnDetroit.com. He also authors the Morning Report Newsletter.

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