Detroit Lions Fans Break Attendance Record at NFL Draft
ICARO Media Group
In a display of unwavering devotion, Detroit Lions fans showed up in droves at the NFL Draft, setting a new attendance record for the event. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proudly announced that over 700,000 people flocked to Detroit over the course of three days, surpassing the previous record of 600,000 set by Nashville five years ago.
The city of Detroit, known for its deep love for football, seized the opportunity to showcase its passion and pride during the NFL Draft. Football enthusiasts from all walks of life gathered at Campus Martius in downtown Detroit, celebrating their team and embracing the spirit of the game.
After enduring years of disappointment, the Lions have experienced a resurgence, igniting a renewed sense of enthusiasm among their fanbase. Ford Field, the team's home stadium, consistently sold out last season as fans eagerly supported the Lions' return to prominence. In fact, their playoff victory against the Los Angeles Rams recorded the third-loudest decibel levels in league history. The subsequent divisional-round win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers surpassed even that, establishing a new record for crowd intensity.
Not only did Lions fans make their presence felt at home games, but they also embarked on passionate journeys to support their team on the road. The season opener in Kansas City saw an influx of supporters clad in blue, chanting "Let's go Lions!" so fervently that their enthusiasm reverberated throughout the notoriously hostile Arrowhead Stadium. Green Bay and New Orleans also found themselves inundated with Lions fans, prompting the Packers and Saints to clarify ticket resale policies in response.
Even during the NFC championship game in San Francisco, Detroit fans made their voices heard, with quarterback Jared Goff attesting to hearing Lions chants amidst the crowd. The sheer number of fans traveling to the Bay Area led to airlines scheduling additional flights and bigger planes to meet the demand.
The Lions' captivating performances and unwavering support from their fanbase garnered national attention, with their playoff win against the Rams drawing the largest prime-time audience since the previous year's Super Bowl. With a franchise-record of five prime-time games during the regular season and two more during the playoffs, the Lions have become a television favorite.
General Manager Brad Holmes expressed his admiration for the Lions' fanbase, asserting that they are unquestionably the best in the world. Their unwavering support and the sacrifices made to cheer on their team have not gone unnoticed. As the upcoming season draws near, there is a strong likelihood that the Lions will continue to dominate prime-time schedules.
The historic crowds witnessed at the NFL Draft serve as a powerful reminder of the passion and dedication unleashed in Detroit. The city has solidified its status as a football town, leaving no room for doubt about the impact of the Lions' fans on the team's success.