| 1989 Detroit Lions season | |
|---|---|
| Owner | William Clay Ford Sr. |
| General manager | Russ Thomas |
| Head coach | Wayne Fontes |
| Home field | Pontiac Silverdome |
| Results | |
| Record | 7–9 |
| Division place | 3rd NFC Central |
| Playoff finish | Did not qualify |
| Pro Bowlers | RB Barry Sanders LB Jerry Ball LB Chris Spielman K Eddie Murray |
The 1989 season was the Detroit Lions' 60th season in the National Football League (NFL), their 56th as the Detroit Lions, and their first full season under head coach Wayne Fontes. The team improved upon their 4–12 record from the previous season, falling to 2–9 before winning out to finish at 7–9. It was the Lions' sixth consecutive losing season, failing to reach the postseason for each of those seasons.
This was the first season with Heisman Trophy winner and future Pro Football Hall of Fame member Barry Sanders. Sanders would post 1,470 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, winning the NFL Rookie of the Year award. In the passing game, Bob Gagliano and Rodney Peete split time as quarterback, starting eight and seven games respectively. Neither the offense nor defense were above average, with the offense moving 4,992 yards and the defensive allowing 5,537 yards; both ranked 19th in the league. Special teams were the only highlight of the Lions, with kicker Eddie Murray receiving his second and last Pro Bowl nod making 20 of 21 field goals and all 36 extra points, and punt returner Walter Stanley leading the league in yards per punt return with 13.8.