(WXYZ) — A bipartisan group of Michigan lawmakers is urging the Detroit Lions and Owner Sheila Ford Hamp to hire Robert Saleh as the team's next coach.
The letter was written by Rep. Abdullah Hammoud, a Democrat from Dearborn, and features signatures from 36 different Michigan members of the House.
Saleh, who is currently the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, grew up in Dearborn, attended Fordson High School and went to college at Northern Michigan before coaching at Michigan State.
Everywhere Robert has been he has achieved success. Most recently, as Defensive Coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, his defense has improved across numerous categories; turnovers, sacks, and yards allowed per game," the letter reads. "He has built and maintained one of the best defenses in the league. Recently, Richard Sherman spoke up about Coach Saleh’s ability to overcome setbacks stating, 'He doesn’t make excuses, he makes great plans.'"
The lawmakers also thanked Hamp for firing former Head Coach Matt Patricia and GM Bob Quinn.
"These decisions are often difficult but are necessary to move forward. For many in our state, and across the globe, the Detroit Lions hold a special place in our lives. We look forward to future success through transitioning to a new manager and head coach," the letter reads.
They finished the letter by saying they hope the organization will consider Saleh as the next head coach, for them and for Lions fans.
"A head coach like Robert can bring tremendous energy and heart to the franchise and would help us reach peaks that have seemed unobtainable for so long. We have an exceptional opportunity here and we trust you to make the best decision. To turn the corner and become a winning franchise, these next hiring decisions are critical," they wrote.
Bipartisan Michigan legislators urge Lions to hire Robert Saleh as coach by WXYZ-TV Channel 7 Detroit on Scribd
Bipartisan legislators sign letter urging Lions to hire Robert Saleh by WXYZ-TV Channel 7 Detroit on Scribd
