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Detroit Lions look to secure spine of team with new contracts for Coaches, players - NFL News

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Detroit Lions look to secure spine of team with new contracts for Coaches, players - NFL News
Detroit Lions secured a first playoff berth since 1999 under the guidance of its coach, Jim Schwartz, and although Lions' road was cut short by defeat to the high flying New Orleans Saints, great progress was made, moving quickly to keep most of the team’s
spine at Ford Field.
The franchise, on Thursday, announced that they have given contract extensions to three of their coaching staff, as they look to return back to the postseason in 2012.
General Manager, Martin Mayhew, in his press conference revealed to the media that contracts of offensive coordinator, Scott Linehan, defensive coordinator, Gunther Cunningham, and special team's coach, Danny Crossman, have all been extended.
Detroit made its first ever entrance to the playoff rounds in a decade and the team has made great progress since its position two years back, when Lions ended the season without a single win.
Quarterback, Matthew Stafford, and wide receiver, Calvin Johnson, played a vital role in their 10-6 success this season and resigning Scott Linehan would greatly benefit the team because Stafford has completely assimilated with the offensive coordinators'
philosophy.
Mayhew, in a 40-minute press conference said:
"It'll be one of our most challenging off-seasons -- probably the most challenging off-season so far, because of where we are as a football team."
The GM has his work cut out to resign key players in the roster and none more than Johnson.
Mayhew said that they will work out a new extension for the receiver as he enters the final year of his contract.
“We definitely plan to work on an extension with him in the near future. That’s what our plan is,” Mayhew said.
“He’s got a big number, but it’s workable.”
Coach, Jim Schwartz’s contract is also approaching expiry, but keeping the Head Coach is a priority for the general manager.
Schwartz has played a vital role in turning around Lions' fortunes.
The coach has given the franchise an identity as a physical unit and his offensive philosophies are in line with fans' expectations.
Reaching the playoffs with a team that was recently the league’s punching bags is no ordinary feat, and Mayhew understands that.
“We plan to start to work on that in the next couple weeks or so,” Mayhew told reporters regarding Schwartz's deal.
Lions were brilliant this season as postseason football finally returned to Ford Field.
The offence, with Stafford calling the shots, was one of the best in the league.
Lions' defence started off well but later in the season, struggled to contain opponents, hence, defensive coordinator, Gunther Cunningham would have to work on these shortcomings.
Mayhew would also have to negotiate with players such as Cliff Avril and Stephen Tulloch, who are reaching free agency in what is going to be a very busy offseason for the Lions' GM.

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