The Detroit Lions entered the divisional round as the NFC’s top seed, favored to claim the Lombardi Trophy, but were unexpectedly eliminated before reaching the conference championship. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and the Washington Commanders delivered a strong offensive performance, while the Lions’ defense struggled to contain the Commanders and forced three interceptions from Jared Goff. After the game, a disappointed Dan Campbell spoke to reporters, clearly shaken by the defeat.
“We just didn’t play well, and I said it before, we didn’t complement each other, and that’s exactly what happened. At the end of the day, I failed to have them ready,” Campbell admitted after the 45-31 loss. “It’s tough to take.”
“It’s tough to lose, man, no matter if you’re the seven seed, six seed, five seed, or one seed—I’ve experienced all of them, and it stings every time. It really hurts.”
As the Lions move into the offseason, there is uncertainty about the future of both offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. Both have attracted interest for head coaching roles and have interviewed with various teams, including before Detroit’s playoff exit.
Campbell expressed that he expects to lose both coaches, though no official announcements have been made yet. “I’m preparing to lose both, though I haven’t been told anything for sure. I just have a feeling,” Campbell shared on Monday morning.
Johnson, known as one of the hottest coaching candidates in recent years, has turned down head coaching opportunities in hopes of winning a Super Bowl in Detroit. However, he is receiving interest this offseason from several teams, including the Las Vegas Raiders. Meanwhile, Glenn is rumored to be a strong candidate for the New Orleans Saints’ head coaching position.
