When the Detroit Lions welcome the Minnesota Vikings to Ford Field this Sunday, much of the focus will fall on second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy, a familiar name to Michigan fans and someone who has quickly earned Dan Campbell’s respect.

The Lions’ head coach spoke with reporters on Tuesday and didn’t hesitate to praise McCarthy, calling him a “winner” and emphasizing the traits that set him apart, even early in his professional journey.

Campbell on McCarthy’s Winning Mentality

Campbell noted that even though Detroit didn’t formally meet with McCarthy during the draft, they thoroughly evaluated him and came away highly impressed.

“He’s a winner. That’s number one,” Campbell said, according to Justin Rogers. “The guy has won a lot of games. He played in a pro-style offense under (Jim) Harbaugh at Michigan, and that’s something you don’t always find. Along with that, he’s athletic, mobile, has a strong arm, and makes smart decisions. Like any young quarterback, more reps will only help him improve.”

That reputation for winning comes as no shock to those who watched McCarthy at Michigan. He guided the Wolverines to a national championship, showcasing not just talent but also the calmness and confidence that Campbell values in his quarterbacks.

Composure Beyond His Age

McCarthy’s path in the NFL hasn’t been perfectly smooth. After missing his rookie campaign with a knee injury and sitting several games this season due to an ankle problem, he’s ready to return against one of the NFC’s toughest defenses.

Campbell, however, doesn’t see any hesitation or nerves in the young quarterback.

“You watch the Chicago game,” Campbell said. “It started rough, he threw an interception, and then he bounced back immediately. You could see the poise, the confidence, and how he led them to a win. That’s impressive for a young player. That tells me everything I need to know.”

That resilience is the same mentality Campbell preaches in Detroit — grit, composure, and accountability. It’s part of what makes McCarthy’s Week 9 return such a compelling storyline for both Lions fans and Wolverine supporters alike.

A Familiar Test for Detroit’s Defense

Though Campbell was generous in his praise for the former Michigan standout, the Lions intend to challenge him. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard plans to ramp up the pressure, with Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill both healthy and creating consistent disruption inside.

McCarthy will face a defense ranked near the top of the league in sacks per game and known for confusing young passers with disguised blitzes and complex coverage.

For Campbell, it’s less about familiarity and more about staying true to Detroit’s defensive identity — making life hard for any quarterback who lines up across from them.

“He’s a good player,” Campbell said with a smile. “He’s tough. But we’re going to make him earn every bit of it.”

 Sunday’s matchup between the Lions and Vikings brings added intrigue as J.J. McCarthy returns to the state where his football story began. Dan Campbell’s admiration for his leadership and poise is genuine, but once kickoff arrives, Detroit’s defense will aim to turn that respect into relentless pressure.

 Ford Field will be electric, the Lions will be unyielding, and McCarthy will face his first true test against a team that fully embodies grit.