DETROIT — In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the city and the NFL, Sheila Ford Hamp, the owner of the Detroit Lions, officially announced today that Lions legend Lomas Brown will be returning to the franchise in 2025 — not as a player, but as a new co-owner of the team.
In a press conference held at Ford Field this afternoon, Ford Hamp revealed that Brown, a key figure in the Lions’ history, will be joining the ownership group in what is being called a landmark partnership. The news marks a historic moment for the franchise and signals a new era of leadership, collaboration, and commitment to bringing success to Detroit’s beloved football team.
Lomas Brown, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Lions history, played 18 seasons in the NFL, with 13 of those seasons spent with Detroit. Known for his dominance as an offensive lineman, Brown earned a reputation as a cornerstone of the Lions’ offensive line throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s. His leadership, hard work, and dedication to the team have made him an icon in Detroit.
“I’m incredibly humbled and excited to return to the Detroit Lions in this new capacity,” said Brown during the press conference. “This is a team that I’ve given so much to over the years, and it’s an honor to now have the opportunity to give back in a way that I never imagined. I’ve seen firsthand the incredible passion and resilience of Lions fans, and I’m thrilled to be part of a new chapter in this franchise’s history. Together, we will work towards bringing a championship to Detroit.”
Ford Hamp, who inherited the Lions from her late mother, Martha Firestone Ford, emphasized how Brown’s return is a key part of her vision for the future of the team. “Lomas has been a symbol of everything the Detroit Lions stand for: toughness, heart, and dedication to this city. His legacy as a player is unmatched, and now, as an owner, he will play an integral role in shaping the future of this franchise. I am beyond excited to welcome him back to the Lions family.”
The move comes as part of a broader effort by Ford Hamp to revitalize the Lions’ organization. The team has faced ups and downs over the years, but with a new leadership structure in place and a renewed sense of purpose, the franchise is determined to build a competitive team that can make deep playoff runs and ultimately bring a Super Bowl title to Detroit.
While specifics of Brown’s ownership stake have not yet been disclosed, sources close to the situation say that he will have a significant role in the team’s day-to-day operations, including player development, community outreach, and long-term strategic planning. Fans are excited about the prospect of Brown’s involvement in the team’s decision-making processes and how his deep knowledge of the game and experience as a former player will help guide the Lions back to prominence.
For many fans, this announcement represents a full-circle moment, as Brown was a beloved figure during his playing days and is now poised to play a major role in the future success of the franchise. The news has sparked celebrations across the city, with fans taking to social media to express their excitement and optimism for the future of the team.
As the Lions look ahead to the 2025 season and beyond, the return of Lomas Brown as a co-owner is a powerful signal of a new era for the team — one that blends tradition, leadership, and a renewed commitment to greatness.
