Lions owner Martha Ford steps down; Sheila Ford Hamp takes over

DETROIT, Mich. — Tuesday morning, Martha Ford decided to step down as owner of the Detroit Lions. Sheila Ford Hamp will replace her mother as owner and chairman of the Lions organization.

While many people thought her decision was health-related, that was never the case. Ford Hamp told reporters that the decision was her mother’s and thought it was best to make the switch before the start of the 2020 season.

Martha Ford has been the owner of the Lions for the past six years. She served as the owner since the passing of her husband (William Clay Ford Sr.) in 2014. During her six years, the Lions have made it to the playoffs twice. Recently, she made a huge decision to keep head coach Matt Patricia and general manager Bob Quinn for the 2020 season.