Jim Schwartz rumors: Lions ‘leaning toward keeping’ head coach

The Detroit Lions' ownership group is "on the fence" about retaining head coach Jim Schwartz, but are leaning towards keeping the embattled fifth-year coach, Adam Schefter is reporting.

Schwartz holds a 29-50 record with the Lions, but recovered from a 2-14 debut season to post a 10-6 record and guide the team to their first playoff appearance in over a decade in 2011. Detroit then lost its opening round game to the Saints and has not won a playoff game since 1991.

Hired away from the Tennessee Titans in 2009, where he was the defensive coordinator, Schwartz's Lions improved in each of his first three seasons, culminating in that 10-6 2011 record, which saw the team set a franchise record for points and quarterback Matthew Stafford set a team record for passing yards.

In 2012, Detroit was one of the most disappointing teams in the NFL, finishing 4-12. This season, the Lions are 7-8 and knocked out of playoff contention. His frustration mounted in the team's overtime loss to the Giants, when he yelled at fans who were booing him.