BLOOMINGTON, Minn. -- The worst kept secret in football is no more.
The Lions have officially hired former Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia as their next head coach.
"When we launched the search for our next head coach, I wanted to find a leader that could take us to the next level and I am confident we have found that in Matt Patricia," vice president and general manager Bob Quinn said in a statement. "He has been preparing for this opportunity his entire career, and he's ready for the responsibility and its challenges.
"Matt is driven to succeed, has extreme passion for the game and excels in preparation. He embodies the same hard-working, blue-collar attributes that represent our organization and the great City of Detroit."
Added Patricia: "I'm incredibly honored and grateful to be named Head Coach of the Detroit Lions. Thank you to Mrs. Ford and her family, Rod Wood, and Bob Quinn for their trust and support as we begin this new chapter of Lions football. This position comes with great responsibility, and I will commit every ounce of my energy to this football team, starting today. My family is excited to become part of this wonderful city that displays so much passion for their teams.
"I can't express enough appreciation to the entire New England Patriots franchise, particularly Robert and Jonathan Kraft and their entire family. I will truly cherish these last 14 years as a member of this incredible organization.
"Lastly, I'd like to express my appreciation and thanks to Bill Belichick. He's been a remarkable mentor to me, not only as a football coach but also as a man and as a friend. I have learned immensely from his detailed leadership approach to the game, which has certainly shaped me into the football coach that I am today. Quite simply, I've been incredibly fortunate to work with, who I believe, is the greatest coach in NFL history.
"Now I turn all of my attention to the Lions. I look forward to the next chapter of my career in Detroit."
As for the Patriots, they now need to find a new defensive coordinator.
It appeared linebackers coach Brian Flores would be the guy, but Greg Schiano, and close friend of Bill Belichick, is now reportedly in the mix.
