Lions Signed Caldwell To Contract Extension Months Ago

He had Sean McDonough and Jon Gruden campaigning for him on TV throughout last Monday night's game, and today the Lions made it official. Jim Caldwell's contract to coach the Lions has been extended. But it turns out there was no drama.According to ESPN, Caldwell and the Lions agreed to the "multi-year" deal several months ago. Caldwell and his boss, Lions' GM Bob Quinn were simply playing coy and a bit of a cat and mouse game with local media.

News of the confirmation comes a day after Detroit Tigers manager Brad Ausmus was fired after four seasons, and with his team in last place.

Caldwell, 62, is in his fourth season as Lions coach, with a record of 29-21 so far, making him the most successful Lions coach in the past half century. He has led the team to two playoff berths but the team hasn't advanced past the Wild Card round.

The Lions have a chance to make a major statement Sunday when they play last season's Super Bowl loser, Atlanta, at Ford Field.

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