The Detroit Lions are quickly becoming a hot spot for free agents, a big shift from the past. According to ESPN analyst Mike Tannenbaum, much of this newfound appeal is thanks to head coach Dan Campbell.
In a recent conference call, Tannenbaum shared, "It’s strange to say, but Detroit is becoming a place players want to be. They have a real shot at winning, and Coach Campbell is a big reason why players are eager to join the team." He added, "When players are nearing the end of their careers, money matters, of course, but having a coach like Dan Campbell is a strong pull to be a Detroit Lion."
This offseason, the Lions signed four top-notch free agents, including offensive guard Kevin Zeitler, cornerback Amik Robertson, and defensive linemen Marcus Davenport and D.J. Reader. All four cited Campbell as a key factor in choosing the Lions.
Reader shared his impression, "I’ve heard from players who’ve played with or under him, and they all say the same thing – what you see with Coach Campbell is authentic." He continued, "When I met him, shook his hand, and spoke with him, it was genuine. You can feel when someone cares about you and speaks to you honestly. He looks you in the eye. It's almost chilling. You feel like, 'Okay, I’ll run through a wall for this guy,' and I think that's amazing."
Zeitler also praised Campbell, saying, "After talking to Coach Campbell and feeling his energy and perspectives, I believe we’ll click well together."
Campbell's coaching style and personality have earned him high praise. In a recent anonymous NFL Players Association survey evaluating coaches' impact on workplace conditions, Campbell scored well. The survey focused on coaches' efficiency with players' time and their openness to collaboration and dialogue, not just on-field tactics.
Davenport, who played under Campbell and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn in New Orleans, remarked, "There aren't many coaches in the league players genuinely want to play for, and it's refreshing to have at least two in Campbell and Glenn."
Tannenbaum, who worked with Campbell in Miami, where he was promoted to interim head coach in 2015, has always seen Campbell's potential. Despite not becoming the permanent head coach for the Dolphins, Campbell's success with the Lions doesn’t surprise Tannenbaum.
The Lions' remarkable 12-5 record last season, clinching their first division title in 30 years, has made them a top contender in the NFC for 2024.
Tannenbaum praised Campbell, saying, "Dan is relatable and likable, but he also knows his boundaries. It's a rare talent – you either have it or you don’t, and he has it. His football knowledge goes beyond what meets the eye; he’s tough, physical, but also incredibly smart and insightful. He and Brad Holmes have done an outstanding job, and seeing him finally recognized as a great head coach is no surprise."
With Coach Campbell at the helm, the future looks bright for the Detroit Lions, poised to continue their success for years to come.
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