Campbell didn’t hesitate in his response:

“We’re not at that point. Look, we’ll take whatever people want to throw our way. If folks need to hand us a reason to be counted out, that’s fine—bring it on. We’ll take all of it and use it when it matters most. I’m not worried about losing coordinators. I’m not worried about the pass rush or the schedule, or the Hall of Fame Game. Honestly, I think it all lines up just right. Year five for me, year five for the core of this team—it feels like everything’s falling into place for where we need to go in 2025.”

Let’s unpack what he means in more detail.

Pass Rush

Right now, full evaluations are tough—teams aren’t in pads, and contact is limited by league offseason rules. With both the offensive and defensive lines only able to simulate plays at a reduced pace, it’s too early to make any solid judgment calls.

Adding context, the Lions were penalized last offseason for violating contact rules during OTAs, so they’re clearly being more cautious this time around.

There is some understandable worry around edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, who’s recovering from a serious leg injury sustained against Dallas late last season. The team also didn’t bring in a marquee edge rusher in free agency. However, last year’s big signing, Za’Darius Smith, remains unsigned league-wide, leaving the door open for a possible return at the right price.

Despite Hutchinson’s absence late last year, Detroit’s defensive front held up for most of the season. While sack totals may have dipped, quarterbacks still had to contend with a defense that was far more disruptive than in past years.

Coaching Turnover

Losing coordinators is just part of the deal for any successful franchise. If a team is thriving, other organizations will want a piece of that success. The Lions had an unusually stable coaching setup, with Ben Johnson (OC) and Aaron Glenn (DC) sticking around for multiple seasons—a rarity in the NFL.

Now, Detroit turns to new voices. John Morton takes over the offense after a stint in Denver, and he brings a wealth of experience from previous roles in both the NFL and college football. On defense, Kelvin Sheppard has been promoted from within. He’s earned respect for revitalizing a linebacker corps that was once a major weakness.

While it’s fair to expect some growing pains, there’s little reason to assume the team will suffer a dramatic drop-off simply due to new play callers.

Injury Recovery

The Lions were hammered by injuries last season, especially on the defensive side. At one point, they could’ve fielded a top-tier defense solely with players on injured reserve.

However, many of those players are on track to return in time for this season. One key exception is run-stopping DT Alim McNeill, who isn’t expected back until the midpoint of the year.

Still, this is the NFL—injuries are unavoidable. Detroit has built depth and invested in a practice squad full of reliable options. And let’s not forget, they still managed to win a franchise-best 15 games last year despite the medical setbacks.

The Hall of Fame Game

Because the Lions are scheduled to play in the Hall of Fame Game against the Chargers, they’ll have an extra preseason game compared to most teams. That changes how they structure their offseason training.

To manage the load, Detroit opted to cancel its mid-June minicamp, an intentional move to help balance the extended preseason. They’re clearly learning from last year’s overzealous approach, which cost them a practice session due to excessive contact.

Given last season’s historic success despite similar disruptions, there’s no real cause for alarm.

The 2025 Schedule

While the Lions are facing one of the more challenging schedules based on last season’s standings, it’s important to take that with a grain of salt. Every year, teams that looked formidable in June end up struggling by November.

Detroit’s opponents include several division winners, but that’s simply the result of earning first place in the NFC North. The rest of the matchups are dictated by the league’s rotation of divisions.

There are some advantages, though. The Lions benefit from one of the best rest-and-recovery layouts in the league and have relatively light travel demands throughout the season. These factors can make a real difference over 18 weeks of play.

The Bigger Picture

Coach Campbell has established a gritty, fearless tone for this franchise, and it runs through every level—from GM Brad Holmes to the players trying to crack the roster. The Lions’ identity is rooted in proving people wrong. “Detroit vs. Everybody” isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s a way of life for this team.

Rather than getting rattled by questions about regression, the Lions will likely use it as fuel. If anything, these doubts may only sharpen their edge.