The Detroit Lions wrapped up their 202 season on Sunday, January 4, with a narrow 19–16 victory over the Chicago Bears in Chicago. While the win provided a positive ending, it also marked the beginning of an offseason filled with change — and more difficult news for head coach Dan Campbell.
Following the season finale, Campbell reflected on the road ahead and acknowledged the uncertainty that comes with transition.
“I believe things happen the way they’re supposed to, whether we like it or not,” Campbell said when asked about the upcoming 2025–26 season. “When moments like this happen, it’s on Brad Holmes and me to make sure we turn it into something positive with the people we trust in this building.”
Detroit finished the year at 9–8, missing the playoffs after entering the season with higher expectations, according to ESPN data. Still, Campbell maintained a hopeful outlook, even while recognizing the disappointment.
“It felt good to finish strong, but at the same time, we have to be honest about where we are,” he added. “This is the end of one chapter, and now it’s about what comes next.”
Lions Lose Another Staff Member
More change arrived on Saturday, February 7, when reports surfaced that former Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn — now with the New York Jets — is bringing another Detroit staffer with him.
ESPN insider Adam Schefter reported that the Jets are hiring Lions assistant tight ends coach Seth Ryan to serve as their new passing game coordinator. The move carries special meaning for Ryan, whose family history with the Jets spans three generations.
Schefter noted that Ryan follows in the footsteps of his father, Rex Ryan, and grandfather, Buddy Ryan, both of whom previously coached the Jets. Fans online quickly reacted, calling it a rare and meaningful continuation of a coaching legacy.
While it’s a milestone moment for Ryan, his departure creates yet another vacancy for Campbell to address as Detroit reshapes its coaching staff.
Pressure Builds in Detroit
Campbell has already taken a major step by bringing in Drew Petzing as the Lions’ new offensive coordinator, but the offseason checklist continues to grow.
The Lions are no longer viewed as a team in transition. Expectations have shifted, and Detroit is now measured by wins, results, and postseason success. That reality places added pressure on every decision — from staffing to scheme — especially for a coach whose identity has been built on emotion, trust, and culture.
Campbell’s challenge moving forward is balancing that passion with precision. Detroit is close to breaking through, but being “almost there” can be the most difficult position in professional sports. A few smart moves could elevate the franchise; a few missteps could halt momentum.
A Lighter Moment Off the Field
Away from football, Campbell made headlines for a more personal reason. On Friday, January 30, he and his wife, Holly, attended the Michigan State–Michigan basketball matchup at the Breslin Center in East Lansing.
The couple received a warm ovation from the crowd upon arrival and showed clear allegiance to the Spartans, wearing MSU gear in support of their daughter, who attends the university. Campbell was also spotted greeting Michigan State’s new football head coach, Pat Fitzgerald, during the visit.
As the Lions’ offseason continues, Campbell finds himself navigating both change and expectation — a defining stretch for a franchise that believes it’s on the brink.
