Top 5 Detroit Lions head coaches of all-time – Detroit Sports Nation

Our Top 5 Detroit Lions head coaches of all-time list includes Dan Campbell

The Detroit Lions, one of the NFL‘s oldest franchises, have experienced a rollercoaster of highs and lows throughout their storied history. Despite never having reached the Super Bowl, the Lions boast a proud legacy, including their last NFL Championship win in 1957. As we navigate through the annals of history, we spotlight the Top 5 Detroit Lions head coaches who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. Their leadership and vision have been pivotal, with fans holding onto the hope that current coach Dan Campbell will lead the team to Super Bowl glory in the near future.

Top 5 Detroit Lions head coaches of all-time

5. Wayne Fontes (1988-96)

Wayne Fontes holds a special place in Lions‘ lore as the head coach with the most wins in franchise history. Accumulating 67 wins, Fontes led Detroit to four playoff appearances, highlighted by a dominant 38-6 victory over Dallas in a divisional round game. This win was heralded as Detroit’s most significant in over six decades, cementing Fontes’ legacy.

4. Dan Campbell (2021-present)

Despite his relatively short tenure, Dan Campbell has already made significant strides with the Lions. In just three seasons, Campbell has revitalized the team, bringing them to the cusp of a Super Bowl appearance. His tenure is marked by a renewed team spirit and a clear upward trajectory, promising a bright future for the franchise.

3. George Wilson (1957-64)

Under George Wilson‘s stewardship, the Lions clinched an NFL title, their most prestigious win in over six decades. Wilson’s singular postseason trip with Detroit resulted in an NFL Championship, a testament to his effective leadership and the pinnacle of his coaching career with the team.

2. George “Potsy” Clark (1931-36, 1940)

As the inaugural head coach following the team’s move to Detroit, George “Potsy” Clark was instrumental in establishing the Lions‘ winning traditions. Clark achieved an impressive .669 winning percentage, guiding the team to 54 wins in 86 games and capturing the club’s first NFL championship in 1935.

1. Buddy Parker (1951-56)

At the pinnacle of our list stands Buddy Parker, whose tenure with the Lions is remembered as a golden era. Parker led the team to consecutive league titles in 1952 and 1953, a remarkable achievement that solidified his status as the greatest head coach in Detroit Lions history.

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The Bottom Line

The legacy of the Detroit Lions is enriched by the contributions of these top head coaches. From Buddy Parker‘s championship-winning teams to Dan Campbell‘s promising tenure, each coach has played a vital role in shaping the franchise’s identity. As the Lions continue their quest for a Super Bowl berth, the foundation laid by these coaching legends remains a source of inspiration and optimism for the team and its fans.