HBO picks the Oakland Raiders over the Detroit Lions and others for “Hard Knocks”

Embed from Getty Images Team president Rod Wood said he wanted no part of the HBO NFL training camp documentary “Hard Knocks.” That was Detroit Lions general manager Bob Quinn’s take as well. Lions head coach Matt Patricia also was not exactly excited at the prospects of being on the show. The Detroit Lions got they’re wish.

NFL teams are picked by HBO and can not say no  to being featured on the show if they fail to meet any of the following criteria: qualified for the postseason in the past two years, hired a new head coach this offseason or appeared on “Hard Knocks” in the past 10 years.

On Tuesday, HBO announced that it has picked the Oakland Raiders to be featured on the network’s behind the scenes training camp series “Hard Knocks.” The Detroit Lions entire operation let out a collective sigh.

Back in February, Matt Patricia suggested that Jon Gruden and the Oakland Raiders would be an excellent choice for the show.  Patricia’s suggestion was made partly out of his want to being left out of the spotlight and not having to conform Detroit’s training camp into must see T.V. The Lions were one of five teams the NFL could compel to appear on the show that gives viewers an annual behind-the-scenes look at one NFL team’s training camp.

Rod Wood said the Detroit Lions would accept their fate if they were picked to appear, and as recently as last week Patricia said he hadn’t been told one way or another whether the Lions still were a candidate for the show.

While ‘Hard Knocks” is an interesting look inside the demands of preparing for the grind of the NFL season. Teams that have appeared on the popular show say it takes away from the narrative, focusing on learning new systems, reacquainting player relationships, and trying to mix in rookies into team chemistry.

The Detroit Lions had a disappointing 2018 season. The team is looking to rebound and return to the NFL playoffs. Now thanks to the Oakland Raiders, that can be the Lions total focus.