By Blessing 
NFL Head Coach Hot Seat Rankings: Why Dan Campbell Deserves More Respect
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the disrespect Dan Campbell is receiving.
After leading the Detroit Lions to three consecutive winning seasons, claiming two NFC North titles, and finishing the 2024 season with a franchise-record 15-2 record, it’s shocking to see Campbell’s name even mentioned in hot seat discussions. Yet, in a recent breakdown of NFL coaching hot seats, Campbell was placed in the “room temperature” category. That’s right—the coach who’s helped breathe new life into a struggling franchise is now being lumped together with coaches whose jobs are genuinely at risk.
That’s just not right.
Changing the Culture and Delivering Results
It’s essential to remember where the Lions were when Campbell took over in 2021. The team was the punchline of the NFL, constantly rebuilding and taking chances on unproven coaching hires. But Campbell’s arrival has been nothing short of transformational. His grit, toughness, and leadership have made the Lions relevant again, something they haven’t been in years.
Yes, the playoff loss to Washington stung, especially after Detroit entered the postseason as the NFC’s No. 1 seed, only to fall short in the divisional round. But let’s not overreact to one disappointing game—it doesn’t erase everything Campbell has accomplished.
The Contract Speaks Volumes
Detroit’s front office has shown clear confidence in Campbell. With a contract extension through 2027, it’s obvious that the Lions view him as their future, not someone who’s on the way out. To suggest that Campbell is even “warm” on the hot seat is simply lazy analysis.
The Bottom Line
Dan Campbell has turned Detroit into a contender. He’s earned the trust of the city, the locker room, and respect across the league. It’s time to recognize that. Let’s save the hot seat talk for when there’s an actual fire. Right now, Campbell’s seat in Detroit is ice cold.