When Matt Patricia talked about a “culture change” within the Lions organization, I’m not sure he’s aware the franchise has already seen this kind half-assing it before.
According to the Detroit Free Press’ Dave Birkett – who I’m sure will be criticized for his posture at the next presser – the Lions head coach is habitually late to not only press conferences but team meetings as well.
Patricia, who has routinely showed up late for his media availability sessions in his first year as head coach, was asked about the importance of punctuality for a head coach at his weekly news conference Wednesday — a session that was pushed back 30 minutes from its original scheduled time, and then started 15 or so minutes after that.
“I think it just depends on the situation really,” Patricia said. “It depends. There’s a pretty busy schedule from those situations I think for everybody. I think fluidity is probably the best answer for you.”
Patricia’s lack of punctuality also has been an issue in team meetings this year, where one former player said the coach was consistently late during his time with the Lions.
I’m sure this is exactly what fans are looking to hear or the perception the organization is looking to have after Patricia’s first season in Motown can be seen as nothing more than an utter disaster. Currently the Lions are 5-10 and will finish the season either four games under .500 or six games under .500 with the only silver lining being a possible top five draft pick. Otherwise Patricia’s tenure as Lions head coach got off to an amazing start which included sexual misconduct allegations, followed by an embarrassing week one blow out to the Jets and plenty of word out of practice that Patricia treats his players like they’re some bottom of the barrel High School football team.
