The “Voice of the Lions” Dan Miller sat down with Lions linebacker Devon Kennard to discuss his being honored as the Lions’ nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. Along with that, Miller asked Kennard about the team announcing Matt Patricia would return as the head coach.

The veteran linebacker is clearly pleased with the news.

“I was really excited,” Kennard said with an earnest smile. “It hasn’t been the year we wanted, obviously, but I think we have some things to build on and a foundation that we’ve been building the last two years. I’m glad they’re giving him the opportunity to see that through.”

Kennard has seven sacks in 2019, matching his total from his first season in Detroit under Patricia. He’s been one of the steady presences on a defensive front ravaged by injuries and ineffectiveness.

He went on to talk about how honored he was to be nominated for the Walter Payton Award. It’s something the players really respect. Good luck to Kennard in the voting.