1. Win At Least Eight Games

Modern NFL head coaches operate on short leashes. If a coach can’t turn a struggling team around in two or three years, chances are he’s going to need a new job. In his two years at the helm, Patricia is 9-22-1 with little to no development on the defense. If Detroit can’t at least throw together an average season in 2020, Patricia’s time as a head coach could end.

Aside from potentially saving Patricia’s job, 8-8 is a good target for the retooling Lions. Jim Caldwell captained the franchise to a 36-28 record during his four seasons as a head coach. Detroit made two playoff appearances, and the team’s worst record under Caldwell was 7-9. Compared to his predecessor’s team, Patricia’s reign is a mess.

By this point, Patricia should have the personnel he wants. We saw him sign several former Patriots this offseason, including Collins, Duron Harmon, and Shelton. Danny Amendola and Trey Flowers also spent time in New England. If Patricia can’t win with players who succeeded under Bill Belichick, he’s doomed.

With his people officially in the locker room, Patricia should draw some growth out of his players. It’s time for Detroit to emerge as a competitive NFL team again.