Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell has downplayed any concerns over a social media incident involving running back Jahmyr Gibbs. Gibbs recently posted a photo showing a whiteboard with certain protection terminology, which inadvertently revealed some of the team’s code words. Despite the potential leak, Campbell isn’t worried. In his Monday radio interview on WXYT-FM, he shrugged off the controversy, saying, “I don’t really give a crap.”
Campbell further stated that if the Lions were to lose due to teams learning their code words, then they simply weren’t good enough. He even jokingly suggested they could post the entire playbook and all the code words, emphasizing that it wouldn’t make a difference. He believes the leak won’t harm the team’s performance or preparation.
The photo Gibbs posted showed fellow running back Jermar Jefferson standing next to a whiteboard with several protection terms and responsibilities written behind him. Some of these terms were unusual, including references to celebrities like “Caitlyn Jenner,” “Khloe Kardashian,” “Julia Roberts,” and “Purple Michigan Wolverine.”
Campbell explained that opposing teams can already hear many of the team’s calls on TV broadcasts, so the leaked terms are not a significant issue. He admitted that he wasn’t initially aware of the situation, only learning about it after a reporter brought it up during a news conference on Saturday. He made it clear that he wasn’t losing sleep over the incident.
Reflecting on the ease of obtaining information about teams, Campbell pointed out that fans at home often have access to more footage than coaches do before a game. He highlighted that teams can analyze tape and discover all sorts of details, such as play designs and tactics, which are openly available for anyone to see.
Campbell dismissed the notion that the Lions’ protection terminology would be a game-changer for their opponents. He reiterated that, regardless of the leaked information, the Lions wouldn’t be affected by it in any significant way. He doesn’t believe there’s any need to make drastic changes to their calls or strategies because of the slip-up.
In response to the situation, Campbell stated that Gibbs would not face any disciplinary action for the photo leak. He has not commented further on the matter, signaling that the team is focused on other priorities rather than dwelling on the minor slip-up.
