The Detroit Lions revealed their new uniforms on Thursday night, which were designed to pay homage 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. The new black jersey featured the team’s signature Honolulu Blue in the jersey numbers and helmets.
Prior to the official reveal, Detroit fans expressed concerns about the return of the black jerseys, which were worn during a lackluster period for the team under the management of Matt Millen. However, one person who appreciated those jerseys was Dan Campbell, the current head coach of the Lions. Having worn the black jerseys himself when he played tight end for the team, Campbell was actually the one to suggest bringing them back after being appointed head coach in 2021.
At the 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, the black jerseys 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 also clarified that the design process for the new uniforms had been ongoing for two years prior to the team’s victory. The timing worked out well, coinciding with the Lions’ achievement and the fans’ eagerness for a change from the previously unpopular all-gray “Color Rush” look.