ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- Normally jovial Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell opened Tuesday's news conference with empathy to deliver breaking news: the team was releasing veteran long snapper Don Muhlbach on Wednesday.
This move signifies the end of an era in Motown, as Muhlbach ranks second in franchise history with 17 seasons played.
The two-time Pro Bowler also celebrates his 40th birthday on Tuesday, ironically the same date that NFL teams were forced to cut the roster from 90 to 85 players.
"Look, I've got the utmost respect for Don, I played with Don.