When a player speaks from genuine emotion, it reveals everything about their coach. That’s exactly what happened when Detroit Lions linebacker Derrick Barnes appeared on Good Morning Football this week and shared heartfelt praise for head coach Dan Campbell and what makes him truly exceptional.

Barnes didn’t hold back when expressing his admiration for the Lions’ passionate leader.

“No disrespect to any of my past coaches, but Dan is easily the best head coach I’ve ever had,” Barnes said, as quoted by Lions on SI. “He’s just like Shep—you can approach either of them with anything that’s bothering you. That’s what I appreciate about them the most.”

Barnes was referring to defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, who, much like Campbell, is recognized as a players’ coach who builds genuine relationships with his guys.

 ‘It’s a Beautiful Thing’ Inside Allen Park

For Barnes, the bond goes deeper than football—it’s rooted in mutual respect and trust.

“When there’s respect between a coach and player, that’s when something special happens,” Barnes said. “I can walk into his office anytime, and he’s like, ‘Hey, DB, what’s up?’ and I can open up about anything. It’s truly an amazing feeling.”

That level of honesty and communication has become a defining trait of Detroit’s culture under Campbell. Inside Allen Park, the atmosphere is built on authenticity, energy, and respect—and the results are showing every game day.

A Coach Players Would Do Anything For

Even during challenging stretches, Barnes said Campbell’s mindset and spirit never change.

“With Dan, there’s just nobody else like him,” Barnes explained. “He’s got such joy and passion in his heart. Even after a tough loss, he doesn’t waver. He’s right back at it, every day, every week, always bringing that same energy.”

That unwavering positivity and determination are a major reason why the Lions remain among the NFC’s top teams. They’re not just winning games—they’re playing with conviction, something Barnes credits directly to Campbell’s leadership.

“That’s why we go so hard for him,” Barnes said. “When he speaks, you believe him. I’m just grateful to be part of this team under Dan Campbell. Hopefully, I get to spend my whole career here, because there’s truly nowhere else like Detroit.”