Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell has earned recognition as one of the NFL’s top leaders heading into the 2025 campaign.

Despite a rocky beginning to his stint with the Lions, Campbell has emerged as a respected figure. Under his leadership, the team has achieved back-to-back NFC North titles — a franchise first.

Still, the absence of a Super Bowl title seems to be holding him back from elite coaching status. In a recent top-10 list by Pro Football Focus, Campbell landed at No. 9 among returning head coaches.

“Dan Campbell boldly claimed he’d change the Lions’ identity when hired in 2021 — and he’s done exactly that,” wrote PFF’s Dalton Wasserman. “After a rough 4-19-1 start, Campbell turned things around. Detroit has now won 35 of its last 44 regular-season contests.”

Wasserman pointed out that the departure of both OC Ben Johnson and DC Aaron Glenn could present a real test for Campbell in year five. Nevertheless, he still praised Campbell’s leadership ability.

Campbell trailed Andy Reid, who took the top spot, and Campbell’s mentor Sean Payton, who ranked second. The top five also featured Sean McVay, John Harbaugh, and Mike Tomlin. Others ahead of Campbell included Jim Harbaugh, Kyle Shanahan, and Nick Sirianni.

“Since Week 9 of 2022, the Lions are second in PFF offensive grade, thanks to a revitalized Jared Goff,” Wasserman added. “Their offensive line has been dominant, and their playmakers are deep. The defense is still developing, but with Aidan Hutchinson, Brian Branch, and Kerby Joseph, there’s promise. Losing coordinators will test Campbell, but he’s shown he can guide Detroit through any storm.”