It's time to celebrate, Detroit Lions fans! The team has announced its captains for the 2024 season, and this year's lineup is both a nod to the past and a glimpse into the future. Heading the charge are some familiar faces along with a fresh addition that has fans roaring with excitement.
Announced just ahead of their season opener against the Los Angeles Rams, the Lions have selected quarterback Jared Goff, linebacker Alex Anzalone, offensive lineman Penei Sewell, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, linebacker Jaylen Reeves-Maybin, and—drum roll, please—defensive end Aidan Hutchinson as their team captains. According to CBS News, five of these players had captained the team in previous seasons, with Hutchinson being the new lion in the pride, replacing defensive end Charles Harris, who was not re-signed after the 2023 season.
Goff and Anzalone have been sporting the captain's “C” since arriving in Detroit in 2021, but the evolving team dynamics are most vividly seen in the other captains. Sewell and St. Brown, both in their second season as captains, have quickly transitioned from rookies to integral components of the Lions' leadership. Reeves-Maybin, a familiar figure on the Lions roster, was first named captain in 2021 and reprised his leadership role in 2023 after a stint with the Houston Texans.
The decision to appoint these leaders is timely, considering the promising trajectory of the Lions' franchise. Last season, the team achieved historic success, clinching their first NFC North title and reaching the NFC Championship game for the first time since 1991. The weight of expectation is heavy, but the chosen captains are seasoned warriors ready to steer this ship into uncharted territories.
Off the field, these captains have also made headlines with lucrative paydays reflecting their pivotal roles. In April, Amon-Ra St. Brown signed a staggering four-year, $120 million extension with $77 million in guaranteed money, as reported by CBS News. Not to be outdone, Goff inked a $212 million deal to stay in Detroit through at least 2027, with the option for an extension through 2028. Clearly, the Lions are all in on their leadership.
Fans are buzzing not only because of the financial commitments but also because of the performances that justify them. Goff, St. Brown, Sewell, and Hutchinson all made it to the NFL's Top 100 list for 2024. Hutchinson, in particular, has become a fan favorite, recording the most sacks by a Lion in his first two seasons and marking himself as a defensive force to be reckoned with.
Additionally, Lions fans have more reason to celebrate as Ford Field gears up for a fan invasion with sold-out season tickets and standing room only passes. The high-octane atmosphere is palpable, reminiscent of the energy that fueled them through a remarkable previous season. Metro Times captures the fervor with quotes like Lomas Brown's likening the team to
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Detroit Lions name 2024 captains ahead of season opener from CBS News
Detroit Lions name 2024 captains ahead of season opener from CBS News
Uncharted territory: Detroit Lions 2024-25 season preview from Metro Times