The head coach of the Detroit Lions, Dan Campbell, offered plenty of insights about where the team's current status is in his latest OTA press conference. Campbell's comments gave a revealing look at the team's progress and priorities.

June 11, Thursday, was the last day of the offseason workouts for the Detroit Lions with their ninth OTA session in Allen Park.

There are six quick takeaways from Campbell's conference session as he spoke on several topics, right from injury updates to player development and what could form Detroit's outlook heading into minicamp, according to Detroit Lions Podcast's Jeff Risdon.

Brian Branch, the safety recovering from a torn Achilles, was attending the OTAs. Campbell urged patience to make sure he is healthy before discussing a contract extension.

“He’s added a little bit of bulk, he’s a little more dense than he was,” Campbell said. “That’s always going to help the body.”

Campbell noted that third-year Ennis Rakestraw, the cornerback, has developed muscle and strength at 5'11", 188 lbs. This could help him to perform a meaningful role after his injury in 2024.

The second-year defensive tackle, Tyleik Williams, showed great confidence. He has a better understanding of NFL football and his ability to contribute at multiple spots along the defensive front.

D.J. Reed, who was bought in as a free agent to be CB1, revealed that he underwent stem-cell treatment in Panama due to the hamstring injury. He believes he can now return as the top cover defender, regaining his explosiveness.

Campbell appreciated the competitive battle between offensive coordinator Drew Petzing and defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard. He believes the schematic challenges on both sides of the ball will only make the team stronger.

Reed mentioned Roger McCreary as "our new nickel, Roger," which suggests that McCreary may have an inside track to the starting nickel cornerback role. While competition is open, he appears to be the current frontrunner.

However, Campbell also commented on the defensive coordinator's growth.

Dan Campbell Gives Strong Statement on Kelvin Sheppard's Growth

Kelvin Sheppard appears to be settling in as a defensive coordinator. Campbell appreciated his growth, noting that the second-year coordinator has gained a strong command of the defense after facing challenges in his first season, according to NBC Sports.

“Relative to last year at this time, he’s just much more comfortable,” Campbell said, according to NBC Sports' Michael David Smith. “I think he’s got a much better grasp of how he wants it to look. Now he’s coaching all 11. He’s coaching the front, he’s coaching the backers, and he’s coaching the back end. He sees it all."

Sheppard has spent the offseason studying some of the NFL's top defenses and adapting concepts that suit the Lions rather than copying.

Sheppard could be one of the biggest reasons if the Lions' defense returns the team to contention this season.

Read more at the Detroit Lions Community!

Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote