In the last 10 years, the Detroit Lions have reached the playoffs three times. Two of them came under the current head coach, Dan Campbell.

He has completely transformed the Lions from a suffering team to a contending team. But what does a former Lions QB who was released after only playing three games say about him? Hendon Hooker has nothing but praise for the Lions HC.

"I love Dan Campbell, man. He’s an amazing coach, an amazing football mind and he coaches with passion; he wants you to play with passion. … It just becomes contagious, and you can see it throughout their whole team — everyone’s playing with their hair on fire. "

Hendon did not get many chances to play with Campbell. The Lions selected him in the 3rd round (No. 68 overall) of the 2023 NFL Draft, but he played 3 games and threw for 62 yards.

But in the little time he had with the Lions' head coach, he was impressed by the coach's unique combination of football acumen and infectious energy. And he is not the only one to say that.

Detroit Lions defensive assistant Jim O’Neil said that Campbell’s leadership style is “infectious,” noting not just his energy but how that passion elevates everyone around him. But does it show up in NFL games? Absolutely.

As of a report from January 2025, the Lions attempted an NFL‑record 151 fourth‑down conversions over a four‑season span. That is the most in the league since at least 1991. In the NFLPA annual report card, Campbell earned an A+ grade, one of the highest among all 32 head coaches.

Campbell's recent success with the Lions has also received praise from the former players, who shared their experiences with him.

NFLPA President also had Praise for Dan Campbell

NFLPA president Jalen Reeves-Maybin has praised the Lions' head coach.

“Obviously, Dan is an incredible leader and if you’re around him he’s going to make an impact on you and you’re probably going to take things from him,” he said via the Detroit Free Press.

Reeves‑Maybin was drafted by the Lions in 2017 and was with the team through 2017–2021, before a 2022 stint with the Houston Texans. He played under Campbell in 2021 and then again in 2023 and 2024 when the LB returned to the Lions.

He was part of the most prolific season in the Lions' history. Detroit had its best regular-season finish under Campbell in 2024. They topped their group with a 15-2 record, but suffered a 45-31 loss against the Commanders in the Divisional playoffs.

What do you think about Dan Campbell? Will he take the Lions to the playoffs once again after last season's disappointments? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Reyansh Dubey

Edited by

Kalp Thaker