In September 1968, Hand sustained torn ligaments to his knee in the season opener, underwent surgery, and missed the remainder of the 1968 season. In 1969, he held out for the first two weeks of training camp, but re-signed with the Lions in late July. Hand returned to his position as the Lions' right defensive end, starting all 14 games during the 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, and 1973 seasons. He had a 62-yard interception return for touchdown in 1970 and was selected as the defensive most valuable player for the 1972 Lions. In 1973, Hand again held out during the early weeks of training camp, finally signing a contract in early August.