Jim Arnold didn’t have to reach back very far into his personal trove of memories and accomplishments to feel a sense of pride when he saw that the Detroit Lions’ special teams were ranked second in the NFL for their overall performance in the 2016 season.
As a Pro Bowl punter and first-team All-Pro who was surrounded by special teams stars during his tenure with the Lions, Arnold was gratified by the recognition for a unit that often goes overlooked when things go well – and in the spotlight when they don’t.
“Definitely, I was proud of it,” said Arnold, who lives in Nashville but has had a close association with the franchise in recent years.