Dan Campbell: The Leader Igniting the Flame in Detroit
Following a surprising Week 9 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, which left the Detroit Lions with a 5-3 record, coach Dan Campbell called a private meeting with offensive coordinator John Morton, who was in his first year on the job.
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Six days later, Campbell, with glasses and a playbook, led Detroit to a dominant 44-22 victory over the Washington Commanders, with a season-high 226 rushing yards and 546 total yards.“As soon as he said it, I reacted: ‘Okay. Let’s do it. What do we have to do?’. I’ve always been like that in this business. I’ve been cut six times, I’ve been fired. You just keep going because it’s always about the team. The ultimate goal is to win the Super Bowl, so I didn’t even blink because I know my role here and the only thing that has changed is that he calls on game day. Everything else remains the same.”
John Morton
This adaptation in the offensive direction is an example of the leadership qualities that define Campbell, according to those who have worked with him. He is competitive, honest, not afraid of difficult conversations, shows vulnerability, and supports his players and coaches with unwavering faith. He listens to the needs of his team and conveys energy and enthusiasm. These characteristics have made him one of the best coaches in the NFL and have earned the trust of a team that aspires to its first Super Bowl, a goal that continues with a matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.“So, I think it’s the right thing to do right now and I’m going to do it. Am I perfect? No, I’m not. The players are going to have to bail me out. They bailed me out yesterday on a couple of things. Jared Goff bailed me out. The staff bailed me out. But that’s what teamwork is all about.”
Dan Campbell
“He believes in us. We believe in him. He seems very big and strong, so if he’s making decisions, they’re probably right. But, jokes aside, I think he’s a football guy and I feel like he has a good pulse of what we need to do. He’s a great coach.”
Graham Glasgow
Five Stories About the Experience of Working with Dan Campbell
Next, we will explore five stories that illustrate what it’s like to work with and for Dan Campbell.
“I love you, man”Amon-Ra St. Brown, Lions star receiver, sent a message to Campbell at 4 a.m. after the NFC divisional round loss against Washington on January 19th: “I love you, man. I know this sucks. But I wouldn’t want to play for any other head coach.” Campbell responded with a similar message and words of encouragement. Despite the disappointment of the defeat, St. Brown is confident that Detroit will be a Super Bowl contender again in 2025, with Campbell at the helm. The receiver has thrived under Campbell’s direction, becoming a two-time All-Pro. St. Brown emphasizes the closeness he has with Campbell, based on mutual respect and open communication, which allows them to share their goals of winning.“I’ll give you the direct version”In January 2021, offensive tackle Taylor Decker received an unexpected call from Campbell, his new head coach, one day after being hired. In that first conversation, Campbell focused on connecting with Decker on a personal level. Decker took the opportunity to advocate for Hank Fraley’s continued role as offensive line coach. Campbell, showing his openness to player opinions, listened attentively to Decker’s reasons. Campbell retained Fraley, who is now the run game coordinator and offensive line coach. Three years later, Decker approached Campbell to discuss his contract situation, seeking direct information. Campbell provided honest information, indicating that they also wanted to assess his recovery from surgery. Decker ultimately signed a three-year, $60 million contract extension, demonstrating Campbell’s trust and transparency.“I will go to war for Dan”Jameson Williams had a difficult period in November 2024, limited by a two-game suspension for violating the NFL’s prohibited substances policy. Despite this, Campbell publicly maintained his faith in the young player. Williams, who has faced challenges in his career, including a knee injury and previous suspensions, thanked Campbell for his unconditional support. The coach’s backing was crucial for Williams, who felt that Campbell never gave up on him. Williams returned to record his first 1,000-yard season in 2024 and signed a three-year extension worth up to $83 million. Williams highlights the faith Campbell has had in him, both on and off the field, and states that he “will go to war for Dan”.“All the lights were off”Kelvin Sheppard, current defensive coordinator for the Lions, remembers how Campbell transformed the atmosphere at the Miami Dolphins in 2015, when he was named interim coach. Sheppard describes that before Campbell’s arrival, the atmosphere was gloomy and demotivated. Campbell, with his aggressive style, changed the team’s culture. Sheppard recounts that Campbell set a standard by pitting Sheppard against center Mike Pouncey in a training session, which positively impacted the team’s performance. Campbell’s influence extended to the Lions, where he fostered an environment of hard work and commitment, similar to what he experienced in Miami.“One year I was Marilyn Monroe, okay?”The Lions’ Halloween party in 2025 was memorable, with eye-catching costumes. Campbell shared his own costume from the past, revealing that he once dressed up as Marilyn Monroe. His wife, Holly, shared vintage photos on Instagram. Campbell doesn’t hesitate to show his authentic side, which generates a strong connection with his players. Jason Cabinda, former Lions fullback, highlights the vulnerability that Campbell demonstrates, which makes it easier for players to identify with and commit to him.
