Quinn spent the last 16 seasons working for the Patriots where he was director of pro personnel since 2012.
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Cornerback Rashean Mathis has threatened that retirement is a possibility if Detroit fires coach Jim Caldwell, and at 35 years old, could face an uncertain future even if he does return.
In that role, Accorsi said Quinn played a significant hand in identifying and signing some of the street free agents who were key to New England’s most recent Super Bowl run. He is 18-15over two years, including a loss in a wild-card game last year.
An opening press conference for a general manager is always a odd scene because for someone like Quinn, it is the culmination of decades of work. Johnson is still a very good receiver – he caught 88 passes for 1,214 yards and nine touchdowns this season – but the Lions could save $11 million by releasing him. “Here, I’m going to be taking the cards off the board, but it’s going to be a group decision and the best decision for the Detroit Lions”.
For years, the Patriots have made tough calls to part ways with veteran players, some of them franchise icons who, for one reason or another, no longer fit the team. “I’m not in any position to pressure Calvin”. “So until then I’m going to reserve judgement”. “I think he’s the quarterback that we want here for the future”.
The Lions rebounded with a 6-2 record in the second half of the season to finish 7-9.
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“I’m not making any timetables about how fast we’re going to win championships around here, ” Quinn said.
