WHOA: Sheila Ford Hamp Signs $13.5M Netflix Deal — Epic Detroit Lions Movie in the Works, and It’s More Than Just a Documentary
Detroit, MI – It’s official. In a move that’s sending shockwaves through both NFL and entertainment circles, Detroit Lions owner Sheila Ford Hamp has signed a $13.5 million deal with Netflix to create a major motion picture about the underdog-turned-contender franchise — the Detroit Lions.
And make no mistake: this won’t be your average sports documentary. What’s coming is a full-blown tribute to the grit, heart, heartbreak, and resurgence of one of the NFL’s most beloved — and now feared — franchises.
From Punchline to Powerhouse: Detroit’s Football Story Comes Alive
The Netflix film, currently untitled (though rumors say it’s working under “Roar: The Detroit Lions Reborn”), will be equal parts documentary, dramatization, and emotional rollercoaster.
“This is a story that had to be told,” said Ford Hamp in a statement.
“The Lions are more than football. They’re Detroit. They’re redemption. They’re family.”
What to Expect in the Netflix Blockbuster
Sources close to the production reveal the film will span the entire modern history of the team — from the Barry Sanders era, through the 0-16 heartbreak, to the Dan Campbell-led renaissance that has reignited Detroit’s soul.
Here’s what’s expected:
-
Powerful interviews with legends like Barry Sanders, Calvin Johnson, and current stars like Jared Goff and Aidan Hutchinson
-
Never-before-seen locker room footage from the Campbell “grit” era
-
A deep dive into how the team and city rebuilt together post-bankruptcy and beyond
-
Emotional fan stories from multi-generational Lions families
More Than Football: A Tribute to the City of Detroit
Perhaps the most groundbreaking aspect of the film is that it’s being described as not just a Lions story — but a Detroit story.
“This movie is going to show why Detroit’s rise mirrors the Lions’ rise,” said a Netflix producer.
“It’s about grit, glory, and a fanbase that never gave up.”
Social Media Buzz: “It’s About Damn Time”
NFL fans — and especially Lions faithful — are already buzzing:
-
“Detroit Lions getting a Netflix film?! TAKE. MY. MONEY.”
-
“If this doesn’t include Dan Campbell biting kneecaps, I riot.”
-
“Hard Knocks was the preview. This is the main event.”
Hashtags like #RoarOnNetflix, #OnePrideFilm, and #DetroitStrong are already trending on X (Twitter), Reddit, and Instagram.
Coming Soon — And It’ll Hit Hard
Filming is set to begin in late 2025, with a release expected in spring 2026 — perfectly timed to stoke emotions before another playoff run (Lions fans, cross your fingers). Netflix has reportedly greenlit both theatrical screenings in Detroit and a massive global release.