After missing the playoffs in 2025, Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell appeared at risk in SB Nation's list of 5 NFL Coaches Who Are Surprise Hot-Seat Candidates in 2026, published by Bill Williamson.

"Campbell has done a good job making the Lions relevant, and he runs a strong program. But if the Lions, who went 9-8, fail to make the playoffs for a second year in a row and show signs of regression, he could be in trouble,” Williamson wrote on July 9. “The NFC North is stacked, and the Lions’ window may be getting tighter."

Campwell is in the sixth year of his contract with 48 wins, 36 losses, and 1 tie across his five seasons. Detroit ended the 2025 season with a win over the Chicago Bears with a 19-16 record. But with a 9-8 record overall, the Lions missed the playoffs for the first time since 2022.

"Not good enough. We didn't get in. We underachieved," Campbell said, as per ESPN. "So, not good. I'd give myself a freaking F."

The Lions struggled with injuries, an inconsistent running game, and problems on the offensive line throughout the 2025 season.

Those issues affected quarterback Jared Goff, who faced more pressure and was sacked 38 times. Detroit even averaged 28.3 points per game, down from 33.2 in 2024.

Before last season, Campbell helped the Lions win 27 regular-season games over the 2023 and 2024 seasons. He also led Detroit to its first division title and first NFC Championship Game appearance since the early 1990s.

After the spring of 2024, Detroit has signed nine players to contracts worth nearly $1 billion. Meanwhile, players such as Jahmyr Gibbs, Sam LaPorta, Jack Campbell, and Brian Branch will likely get contract extensions.

Better decisions could help the Lions improve under Campbell

Campbell has helped build a strong team in Detroit. But even small mistakes could decide how far the Lions go this season, according to a July 15 report by Sports Illustrated.

"Campbell can become an even higher-performing NFL head man by first cleaning up the team's self-inflicted mistakes,” Vito Chirco of Sports Illustrated wrote.

The head coach will rely on his new coaching staff this season. Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing is expected to bring more two- and three-tight-end formations, along with a new running approach, to help the Lions move the ball in different ways.

Interestingly, Lions are changing their defense as well. The team plans to use more nickel packages and less predictable looks, giving Campbell more flexibility on game day.

But if those changes work, Detroit could take a big step toward becoming the contender many expect it to be.

Now you tell us, will those changes be enough for Campbell to keep the Lions' Super Bowl dream alive? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Shreya Mishra

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit