The Detroit Lions have made good on their promise to head coach Dan Campbell, bringing back the popular black alternate jerseys to the team's uniform rotation. The jerseys, which had been absent since 2016, will make a return thanks to the Lions' victorious NFC North campaign.

The decision to reintroduce the black alternate jersey was based on a promise made by the Lions' ownership group to Coach Campbell. According to team president Rod Wood, Campbell had expressed his desire to bring back the black jerseys during his early days with the franchise.

Wood recounted the conversation, stating, "He said, 'Rod, when can we get the black jerseys back?' I said, 'I'll make a deal, when you win the division I'll bring the black jerseys back.' So I went out on a limb. Thankfully, he delivered. That's a true story."

The black alternate jerseys were initially introduced in 2003 when the trend of black uniforms was sweeping the NFL. The jerseys proved popular among players, including Campbell himself when he played for the Lions from 2006 to 2008. However, in 2017, Detroit discontinued the black alternates in favor of gray jerseys, which will not be included in the next uniform rotation.

While there was a catch to Wood's promise, as the uniforms and helmets for the 2024 season had to be submitted 18 months in advance, Campbell's success in leading the Lions to the NFC Championship for the first time since 1991 ensured the return of the black jerseys.

The black alternates feature the word "Lions" above the number, in the team's signature Hawaiian Blue color. The blue alternate helmet will continue to be paired with the black alternates, along with the option of black or blue pants.

The Lions' decision to fulfill their promise to Coach Campbell is not only a tribute to his leadership and success but also a testament to the faith the organization has in him. The uniform overhaul also signifies a return to a more classic approach for the franchise, after experimenting with modern designs in recent years.

It is important to note that the return of the black alternate jerseys would likely have happened regardless, given the league's uniform policies and procedures. However, the fulfillment of Wood's promise adds an extra layer of significance to this much-anticipated return.

As the Lions gear up for the upcoming season, the reintroduction of the black alternate jerseys serves as a symbol of the team's commitment to revival and a fresh start under the leadership of Dan Campbell. Fans can now look forward to seeing their team embrace its history while forging a new path towards success.