Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell isn’t losing sleep over the national media’s concerns about his team taking a step back in 2025. During OTAs, Campbell was asked about all the chatter around coordinator changes, a potentially weakened pass rush, and a tough schedule. His response? Classic Dan.
“Give us every excuse,” he said. “We’ll use them when the time is right. I’m not worried about anything—we’re right where we need to be.”
Let’s unpack what he’s really saying.
Pass Rush Worries? Not So Fast
Sure, Aidan Hutchinson is coming back from a major injury, and the Lions didn’t go big-game hunting at EDGE in free agency. But Campbell isn’t sweating it. The defense was still effective even after Hutch went down late last season, and there’s still a chance Za’Darius Smith could return if the price is right. Plus, it’s OTAs—no pads, no real hitting yet. Too early to panic.
Coaching Turnover Is Just the Price of Success
Losing both OC Ben Johnson and DC Aaron Glenn in one offseason would rattle most teams, but Campbell sees it as a compliment. He’s confident in new OC John Morton, who brings a deep résumé, and new DC Kelvin Sheppard, who earned his promotion after completely transforming the linebacker unit.
Injury Bounce-Back Already Underway
The Lions had a brutal run of injuries last year, but most key guys are on track for a return. Alim McNeill may miss the start of the season, but Detroit’s deep roster—and the next-man-up mentality—has them covered. Let’s not forget: they still won a franchise-record 15 games with half the defense on IR.
Hall of Fame Game? No Big Deal
Yes, Detroit has an extra preseason game this year, but they’ve already adjusted by dropping minicamp. Last season, they lost a practice for being too intense—didn’t hurt them one bit.
Tough Schedule? Good. Bring It On.
The Lions face a stacked slate, but Campbell sees opportunity, not adversity. The team has one of the best rest advantages and the least travel miles in the league. If any team can turn a tough draw into a strength, it’s this one.
At the end of the day, Campbell isn’t interested in excuses—he’s building a team that thrives on them. “Detroit vs. Everybody” isn’t just a saying around here. It’s the Lions’ playbook.
Campbell Claps Back at Critics: Lions Built for the Grind, Not the Hype”
