The Detroit Lions were riding high after their impressive 2024 season, but the offseason came with some serious shake-ups. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn left for a head coaching job with the Jets. Then, offensive mastermind Ben Johnson took the head gig in Chicago. And that was just the beginning — a total of six assistant coaches left the team.
Despite all the change, Dan Campbell never panicked.
According to Lions GM Brad Holmes, Campbell knew changes were coming but didn’t let the pressure rattle him. “You kind of had an idea that Ben and Aaron were going to be gone, but I don’t think we were prepared for all the guys who got poached,” Holmes said on record. “Dan stayed patient. He didn’t just try to fill spots quickly. He focused on fit — and we ended up with some really good coaches.”
Campbell brought in John Morton and promoted Kelvin Sheppard as part of the new-look staff. Now he’s focused on getting the team back to the playoffs, and he’s confident in the guys leading the way — including wide receiver Jameson Williams, who’s turning heads in camp.
“There’s so much we can do with him. He’s gotten stronger. He can stop on a dime. You talk about a tough cover,” Campbell said.
Losing key coaches is never easy, especially ones as important as Johnson and Glenn. But if there’s one thing that’s clear, it’s that Dan Campbell isn’t going anywhere — and he’s ready to lead the Lions through the next chapter.
Dan Campbell’s Calm Amid Chaos: How He Rebuilt Lions’ Staff After Major Departures
