The Detroit Lions have hired Brian Xanders, who has served as the Denver Broncos general manager for three seasons (2009-2011).

 Xanders, who has 18-plus years of NFL experience in Denver and Atlanta, will come to Detroit as the senior personnel executive.

 A statement was released by the team from Mayhew: “Brian’s addition, given his diverse background, positively impacts all aspects of our team's football operations. He brings experience as a general manager and has worked in both pro and college scouting. In addition to his personnel background, he has experience in contract negotiations and expertise in the development and use of technological resources in player personnel.

“Brian will effectively improve on the structure we have in place and will add another set of eyes to the evaluation process.”

 In 2009 Xanders was the youngest NFL general manager at the age of 37.

 While he was with the Broncos, Denver claimed the 2011 NFC West Division title. From 2009-11, the Broncos acquired 25 players through the draft and free agency that ended the 2011 season on the active or reserve roster. 

 Xanders left the Broncos with a year left on his contract a year after John Elway took charge. It happened after the 2012 draft and was a mutual decision according to reports.

 Like Mayhew, Xanders played at Florida State, but their paths didn’t cross.

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