The Detroit Lions have spent years praising newly retired OT Dan Skipper for what he brought to the organization as a player. Skipper was a hero in Detroit as a sixth lineman, even scoring a touchdown in 2024. 

The OT has now transitioned onto Detroit’s coaching staff this offseason. Head coach Dan Campbell believes that his future in coaching could be just as promising as his playing career. During a recent press conference, Campbell expressed how Skipper has fit in seamlessly to the role.

“We’re still trying to figure Dan out,” said Campbell. “But he fits us like a glove, you know, just his temperament, the way he goes about his business. He’s a professional.”

Campbell explained how the role is second nature to Skipper and how he was the same before his new role as well.

“Love Skip. He’s a natural,” said Campbell. “He was that way as a player, smart, wants to know all of it, the big picture.”

Campbell also talked about how, due to Skipper’s familiarity with the staff, it has helped Skipper do well in his new role.

“He’s certainly going to do what Hank asks him to but he’s been trained in so he knows exactly the way it’s supposed to look. So Skip’s doing a really good job.”

Skipper had a 9-year-long career with 16 starts and 69 games played. He was frequently used as an extra blocker when the offensive coordinator was Ben Johnson. He retired only recently on January 22, 2026.

Meanwhile, Campbell also talked about the Lions' most recent first-round pick.

Campbell Gives An Update on Lions’ Recent First-Round Pick

The Lions used their 17th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on Clemson Tigers’ offensive tackle Blake Miller. During the press conference, Campbell talked about Miller’s current status and the progress that he has seen from him during the OTAs.

“It is early. There are things he learns every day. He is learning every day,” said Campbell as published on Heavy.com. “As long as he continues to grow and take these small steps every day, he will be fine.”

While OT Larry Borom has played 5 seasons in the NFL, he hasn’t been a regular starter, with only 38 starts from 63 games. This could mean that the Clemson alumnus is likely to be the frontrunner for the role.

What are your opinions on Blake Miller starting the 2026 season? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Dhruv Vishnu Nair

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi