The suspense was palpable as the Detroit Lions finally gave their fanbase what they’d been waiting for — the unveiling of their hotly anticipated alternate helmets. The football world had been buzzing with anticipation ever since the Lions teased fans with a tantalizing hint of vintage blue and silver represented by a classic Ford Mustang. Today, that tension reached its climax with the helmet reveal.
start your engines pic.twitter.com/aHOUjl9VQ0
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) June 21, 2023
Per the Lions website, the helmet has historical significance:
- “Symbolizing the future, is a shell color never before worn in the NFL”
- “Designed to celebrate the Lions 90th season”
- “A classic logo pays tribute too the Club’s heritage”
- “Matte facemask in Lions signature Detroit gray”
For the Lions, their striking new helmets are designed to complement their alternate gray jerseys and pants.
No New Uniforms… Yet
Despite fans’ high hopes for a complete uniform transformation, president Rod Wood dampened expectations. “There will not be new uniforms in 2023,” Wood announced. His comments came via Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, who relayed the statement.
Wood acknowledged the fan excitement, quipping, “I know people get over their skis on that.” He highlighted the lengthy process of uniform design and approval, noting, “It takes really two years to get it going.”
Brian Facchini, the Lions’ chief communications and brand officer, is currently working with a dedicated team and Nike, looking at potential uniform designs for 2024.
Wood hinted at the exciting prospects, saying, “Uniforms that will probably be for 2024. It could be an interesting overhaul of the uniforms.”
Alternate Helmets, An NFL Trend
With this unveiling, Detroit joins a rising trend in the NFL. Last season saw thirteen teams adorning alternate helmets on the field. This was a notable uptick following the changes to the NFL’s one-shell helmet policy approved in the spring of 2021, allowing these new designs to be worn in tandem with alternate uniforms.
A New Era for Lions Football
The Detroit Lions’ unveiling of their alternate helmets signifies more than a new design; it marks the beginning of a dynamic era for the team. The certainty is this: fans will be on the edge of their seats, keenly awaiting what the team brings to the table next.
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For more from our Detroit Lions beat writer, Matt Broder, check him out on Twitter here: @mattbro21
Contact: Broder@woodwardsports.com
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Original Photo Credit: © Detroit Lions
