... is a hidden cost that the Detroit Lions have incurred as a result of their stunning, shameful loss at home to the New York Jets. A cost that may set the Lions' rebuilding program back for years to come.

For the Lions, last Sunday’s game was supposed to be a statement game. A game that would see the Lions ascend into respectability and legitimacy among the cognoscenti, players, media and fans.

But, they lost, and more importantly those veteran free agents who will be targeted in 2011 were likely left with a decidedly negative perception of Detroit after the Lions failed to establish themselves as a destination of choice.

Veteran free agents want two things: a nice con...

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