Detroit Lions cornerback Carlton Davis III has nothing but high praise for head coach Dan Campbell, and his admiration could play a role in his potential return to Detroit.
Davis, who is set to hit free agency, recently appeared on the ‘Slightly Decent’ podcast, where he shared why Campbell stands out as one of the best coaches in the NFL. Joining former Lion Saivion Smith and ex-Tampa Bay Buccaneer Vernon Hargreaves, Davis emphasized Campbell’s relatability and his willingness to take accountability—two traits that have made him a beloved leader in Detroit’s locker room.
“He went in the locker room. Bro, he was crying. He was like, ‘Blame your coach.’ He was really like, ‘Blame your coach. You can blame me. You can blame me,’” Davis recalled. “I have never in my, what, 20 years of playing football, ever had a coach just say, ‘I lost the game for y’all.’”
Campbell’s ability to connect with players on a personal level and his authenticity have been key factors in Detroit’s resurgence. Players don’t just respect him—they want to go to battle for him.
“Dan, he’s the type to talk to you damn near every day—at practice, just walking through the locker room,” Davis continued. “He literally sat me down and did this a couple times during the season (where) I had a good game, and he’d come up to me like, ‘Boy, you’re playing your ass off.’”
That type of leadership goes a long way. Many coaches keep things strictly business, but Campbell isn’t afraid to praise players for the little things—things that often go unnoticed. Davis pointed to a moment when Campbell shouted out Amon-Ra St. Brown for his downfield blocking in a game against the Ravens, despite the Lions being well out of contention by that point.
“Everybody ain’t glorifying that,” Davis said. “But he’s glorifying that in front of the team like, ‘This is what I’m talking about!’”
Davis, who was acquired midseason in 2024, became a key contributor to Detroit’s defense. His strong play—and now, his vocal admiration for Campbell—could be signs that he’s open to staying in Detroit beyond this season.
“He a real one. He’s my favorite head coach. I ain’t gonna lie, that I done played for,” Davis admitted. “That’s why I was out there trying to break my jaw for him.”
With free agency looming, the Lions have big decisions to make in their secondary. But if Davis’ words are any indication, Campbell’s leadership might just be enough to convince him to stay in Detroit and keep battling for the coach he respects the most.
Dan Campbell Could Play Key Role in Carlton Davis’ Return to Detroit
