Ford Hamp Says New Coach Will Make Decision on Stafford's Future

Read more on the future of Matthew Stafford as quarterback of the Detroit Lions

Speaking for the first time since her introductory press conference as the new principal owner of the Detroit Lions, Sheila Ford Hamp addressed members of the media Saturday, following the dismissal of head coach Matt Patricia and general manager Bob Quinn. 

In her near 20-minute media session, Ford Hamp expressed her disappointment that the season has not turned out the way in which she had hoped and that she will work to find the right people to lead the organization moving forward. 

When asked about the future of Matthew Stafford as the quarterback of the team, she conveyed that the new coach will get to make the decision, as to whether Detroit's franchise passer gets to remain under center.

"Well, since I'm not the coach, I'm probably not the right person to ask that question to. We'll see what the new coach has to say," Ford Hamp replied. 

She went on to acknowledge how tough playing in the Motor City has been for the 12th-year pro. 

"I think he's an extremely talented young man, and he's tough as nails. And, you know, it's been tough for him. But, I think coaches will make that decision," she said.

Why should supporters trust that the process will work this time?

With the organization's history of losing at the top of everybody's mind, Ford Hamp promised to work hard to do the best she can with team president Rod Wood, but offered no guarantees.

She commented, "There are no guarantees. All I can say is, 'I'm going to work as hard as I can, along with Rod (Wood). And we are going to make this an extremely thorough and comprehensive search, and we're going to do the very best we can."

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