Dan Campbell had quite a lot to say about the Detroit Lions' offseason - one that he very, very much wishes to not already be in during the first week of January.
The beloved head coach took to the podium one day after the Lions defeated Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears in Week 18, ending their disappointing season on a good note. He had a lot to say on several hot topics, which included his plans for his coaching staff, competition for several positions in 2026, the teams' preparedness for Frank Ragnow's retirement, and more.
Everything Dan Campbell said after 2025 season that should perk Lions fans' ears up
Campbell on a change at OC, DC
Campbell told reporters that he needed a few days to figure out what he planned to do at both offensive coordinator and defensive coordinator, and generally figure out what to do about his staff. It has felt like a forgone conclusion that the team would be looking to replace John Morton at OC, but not as much noise has been made of Kelvin Sheppard's work in his first year at DC.
Sheppard likely won himself another season at the position headed into 2026, but it really all depends on if Campbell isn't swayed too much by better, more experienced options on the market (see: Jim Schwartz, or the actually available Raheem Morris). Either Campbell really does want to think on things, or he's just waiting to see how all the chips fall following Black Monday.
Campbell on changing play-calling up
Campbell got cute with reporters on the topic of changing things up at play-caller, telling them that he'd like to potentially keep calling plays as to avoid getting another play-caller stolen. It was clearly a hit at Ben Johnson, but also, it should concern Lions fans to hear that Campbell is considering holding the reins there.
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Campbell is an aggressive play-caller, which can be good at times. But not all the time. See: the Lions' 58 percent conversion rate on 4th down, and a 38.7 percent conversion rate on 3rd down this season. He, and Brad Holmes, should be seeking out a creative mind at OC to take over that responsibility.
Campbell on adding competition to roster
It's clear that Campbell did not find that the Lions had enough competition on the roster to make players sweat about their security on the roster. At least, that's what his comments on needing to add competition would indicate. Cornerback, safety, and offensive line all feel like the areas in which the Lions will look to add some competition this offseason.
Campbell on Frank Ragnow retirement
Fans know the Lions cannot repeat the same mistake they made with Frank Ragnow as it pertains to Taylor Decker's potential retirement. That is to say, they cannot be unprepared for the inevitable and not take an offensive tackle in the draft or poke around in free agency for a proper starting replacement. Campbell knows this, too.
Campbell told reporters he'd also give himself an F on the year. That's what's to be expected from the head coach after a season with no postseason appearance. But, luckily for Campbell, Detroit has the foundation right now to improve upon 2025 almost immediately.
It's a matter of how well Holmes executes their aggressive offseason plan, which is something fans will get a peek into on Thursday: that's when Holmes is slated to speak with media about the 2025 season.