Louis Riddick should be the Detroit Lions next general manager

For the next Detroit Lions general manager, Louis Riddick is an excellent choice.

The Detroit Lions often find themselves as a team of players that produce lackluster results that lead to a revolving door for coaches and general managers. No instance is more obvious than in 2008 when, despite having a potential Hall of Famer in Calvin Johnson (albeit early in his career), the team finished the year as the first 0-16 season.

The Browns matched that dubious feat in 2017 and, if things stay on track, the 2020 Jets would join those two teams. In other words, ineptitude and the motor city have often gone hand in hand. Recently, the trend continued under the stewardship of Matt Patricia and Bob Quinn.

Both men had a level of success in New England only to attempt to bring it to Detroit and fail. It begs the question of why did they arrive? Especially after Patricia’s blunders of Super Bowl LII which wasted a prime performance of Tom Brady.

Now both men are out and thus owner Sheila Ford Hamp is in the process of finding new leaders. She has already done well with the hiring of Chris Spielman and having the influence of Barry Sanders towards finding a head coach. As for the GM, look no farther than ESPN analyst Louis Riddick.

Per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Riddick is currently in the process to be interviewed and should be at the top of the Lions list.

The Detroit Lions must hire Louis Riddick given his credentials and experience

At first glance, an analyst on a network doesn’t seem to the right choice. Upon further observation of Riddick’s résume, however, you’d be hard pressed to find reasons why he should not be given an opportunity. Riddick has playing roots in the NFL since being drafted in 1991 by San Francisco. He has played for four NFL teams, most notably in Cleveland from 1993-95.

Following his playing career, Riddick was a scout in Washington for four years before becoming Director of Player Personnel in 2008. Eventually, he followed a similar path in Philadelphia. Now at ESPN, Riddick has been providing analysis on players while also broadcasting on Monday Night Football.

Furthermore, his soft-spoken and blunt approach could be welcomed in the Motor City. Those who have played in the NFL tend to understand what it takes to compete. Additionally, the higher the quality of an employee, the greater the chance for productivity. And given the state of affairs within the franchise, a quality employee is desired.

Louis Riddick is no Bill Nunn nor Ron Wolf. However, he is an accomplished individual and would be an exemplary hire for the Lions. With other teams such as the Houston Texans planning on interviewing for his services, it would be wise for the Lions to act as fast as the city does when it comes to providing motors.