On This Date: Lions Get Best Owner in Franchise History

Five years ago Monday, the Detroit Lions made a massive change that has since led to a renaissance.

On June 23, 2020, the organization made a transition in ownership from Martha Firestone Ford to her daughter Sheila Ford Hamp. Heading into that season, which was made difficult by the emergence of the COVID pandemic, Hamp had high expectations for then-coach Matt Patricia.

While the first year was turbulent, Hamp's tenure as owner has largely been successful and is associated with what has become a golden era of Lions football.

Hamp and her family decided to retain the tandem of general manager Bob Quinn and Patricia after a 2019 season in which the team finished 3-12-1. However, she eventually made the move to part ways with both after a dismal 4-7 start to the 2020 campaign.

This decision ultimately led to a move that has since shaped the organization and its journey to becoming Super Bowl contenders.

First, Hamp brought in franchise legend Chris Spielman to aid with their search for Quinn and Patricia's replacements. Partnering with team president Rod Wood and Chief Operating Officer Mike Disner, Hamp created a quartet that was set on restoring the metaphorical roar.

It's well documented that the organization landed on Brad Holmes as GM and Dan Campbell as head coach to lead the organization. Shortly after, the team made another franchise-altering move in trading longtime quarterback Matthew Stafford to the Los Angeles Rams for Jared Goff and a package of draft picks.

The returns were not immediate, as the Lions were aided by a strong finish in a 3-13-1 record in the first year of the Holmes and Campbell era.