Lions sign head coach Jim Schwartz to contract extension

By Gil Alcaraz IV

Over the past three years, Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz has helped elevate the team from the bottom of the NFL barrel to a step below the top tier.

Now, as a reward for his efforts, the Lions have signed Schwartz to a new, multi-year contract extension. The length and financial terms of the new contract are currently unavailable.

Since he was first hired on as the Lions’ head honcho in 2009, Schwartz has done more than enough to justify receiving a contract extension. When he came in to Detroit, the Lions were coming off of a 0-16 season that dubbed them the worst team in the NFL. With the help of a No. 1 draft pick that yielded quarterback Matt Stafford, the Lions began their climb back to prominence.

The following season signaled the start of a slow rebuilding project that saw the year come to a close with a 2-14 record for the Lions. Although they failed to do much better than their winless season in 2008, the progress was obvious.

A 6-10 2010 season paved the way for a breakout 2011 season, during which they posted a 10-6 record while earning their first playoff appearance since 1999. Mixing impressive coaching with a culmination of several high first-round picks, the Lions found their way back into championship contention.

Now it’s 2012 and the Lions are arguably one of the most talented teams in the league. Their passing attack is among the most feared in the NFL and the defensive front gives opposing offenses nightmares. Although there are still holes that must be filled this offseason, it seems as though the Lions are prepared for a bright future spent majorly in the win department and Schwartz has been the driving force behind their success.

Schwartz was heading into the final year of the his initial contract with the Lions, but is now nailed down as the Detroit head coach for at least a few more seasons.

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