Detroit Lions owner Martha Ford isn't messing around.
In a letter released to season ticket holders on Friday, Ford apologized for the past and put the organization on notice. The Lions have just one playoff win since the merger. Obviously, they have no Super Bowl appearances or trophies to speak of.
"The organizational changes I made last week reflect not only our disappointment with this season, but also underscore our commitment to each of you. You deserve much better. Your support, loyalty and passion for the Lions over the years has been nothing short of remarkable. You have done your part. Now we must do our part.
"You deserve a Lions football team that is a consistent winner and one that competes for championships."
Ford's statement immediately following the firings of Tom Lewand and Martin Mayhew and the subsequent letter could be looked at as two of the biggest positives the franchise has seen in decades. The Lions' steady slog into mediocrity has been incredibly frustrating for a fan base that knows well the meaning of patience.
The next big step will be making a home run hire at general manager. Though it's not that simple -- rarely are there rock star general managers -- Ford and her team will have to find a balance between immediate and sustained success that comes around once every few years. Getting a head start on the search should help, giving her team time to view ebbs and flows throughout the season and the opportunity to see how certain candidates handle issues that arise during the season.
