After a frustrating 2025 campaign came to an end, Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell didn’t attempt to gloss over the disappointment. Instead, he addressed it directly, making it clear that the organization understands what often follows an underwhelming season in the NFL:
Nothing stays the same.
During his final press conference of the year on Friday, Campbell spoke candidly about the team’s shortcomings and why returning next season without adjustments isn’t realistic.
“When things don’t go the way you expect, it’s usually not just one issue—it’s a combination of factors,” Campbell said, according to Pride of Detroit. “Do I have ideas right now? Maybe a few. But I need time. I need to sit down and really evaluate everything.”
His comments suggested more than routine offseason reflection. Campbell sounded like a coach who knows that repeating the same approach isn’t the answer.
Standing Still Isn’t an Option
Campbell was clear that change—whether noticeable or subtle—is coming to Detroit this offseason.
“One way or another, something will be different,” he said. “It might not be major, but change is inevitable.”
That statement alone speaks volumes. It points toward difficult evaluations ahead involving the coaching staff, personnel decisions, leadership roles, and how the team responds after failing to meet expectations.
This wasn’t a reaction driven by panic. It was about responsibility.
Campbell has consistently emphasized accountability throughout his tenure, and his tone reflected that same philosophy. No excuses. No deflection.
What Might Change in Detroit?
While Campbell didn’t provide specifics, several areas could be under review:
Potential coaching or staff adjustments
Reevaluating offensive and defensive approaches
Roster movement, including leadership additions
A sharper focus on discipline and consistency
The Lions aren’t signaling a complete overhaul, but they also aren’t ignoring the issues that surfaced throughout the season. Minor problems became major obstacles, and the organization knows it can’t afford to overlook that.
For a franchise that has steadily raised its standards, remaining stagnant would have been the most concerning outcome of all.
Campbell’s message wasn’t emotional
—it was intentional. The Lions are at a turning point, and rather than leaning on comfort, their head coach is choosing growth. In the NFL, progress rarely comes from staying the same. Sometimes the hardest step forward is admitting that something needs to change.
