By Moses Joshua 
Why the Lions’ offensive identity is safer than critics think
Campbell’s Hidden Hand in the Lions’ Offensive Renaissance
As the Detroit Lions prepare for a pivotal 2025 NFL season, much of the conversation has centered on the departure of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and what that means for one of the league’s most potent attacks. But amid that chatter, one former player is reminding fans and analysts not to overlook the architect who’s quietly helped steer the ship all along—head coach Dan Campbell.
Former NFL lineman and current Fox Sports analyst Mark Schlereth recently praised Campbell for his deeply embedded role in designing and sustaining Detroit’s offensive identity. Speaking on FS1’s Breakfast Ball, Schlereth noted that Campbell’s football acumen goes well beyond motivational speeches and locker room culture.
“Where I don’t think Dan (Campbell) gets enough credit is Dan understands that offense,” Schlereth said. “He’s got a heavy hand in the way that offense is structured, the way they run that offense. He’s very smart when it comes to X’s and O’s, how to use personnel… it’s very much Dan Campbell is involved in that.”
Campbell initially took over play-calling duties midway through 2021 after parting ways with then-coordinator Anthony Lynn. That transition helped spark the Lions’ offensive turnaround, with Ben Johnson stepping up and becoming the face of the system. Yet, as Schlereth points out, Johnson built that success atop a framework Campbell had already laid.
The Core Remains Intact—And Dangerous
While Johnson’s departure to the Chicago Bears has led to predictions of regression, not everyone is buying into the doom-and-gloom outlook. Analyst Danny Parkins, also appearing on Breakfast Ball, shared confidence in the Lions’ ability to remain one of the NFL’s most productive offenses—even under new coordinator John Morton.
“I think a lot of people can be the play caller for a team that has a top-two offensive line, a very accurate veteran quarterback, a true No. 1 receiver, a truly elite tight end, [and] a great two-headed attack at running back,” Parkins argued. “I think the Lions are still an excellent football team.”
Parkins also pointed out Detroit’s deep arsenal of talent—from Jared Goff’s steady command at quarterback to rising stars like Jameson Williams, who brings explosive potential to the passing game.
A System Bigger Than One Coordinator
The bottom line? If Campbell was instrumental in shaping Detroit’s offensive philosophy, there’s little reason to expect a steep drop-off now. His fingerprints are all over the current blueprint, and with him still guiding the ship, the Lions should be well-prepared to adapt and evolve—even without Johnson calling the plays.
“He will get back more involved in that offense,” Schlereth said, “to make sure it runs as he has established it from the beginning.”
With a stacked roster, a proven leader, and a system that prioritizes creativity, physicality, and execution, Detroit’s offense appears built to last. As 2025 approaches, fans might want to worry less about who’s calling the plays—and trust in the coach who’s been designing them all along.