Lions’ Dan Campbell straightforward about his view on the 2025 season

Dan Campbell’s Honest Assessment of the Lions’ Season

Dan Campbell is committed to being straightforward with the Detroit Lions, regardless of how things turn out.

When asked during his end-of-season press conference about the upcoming season in 2025, he reflected on what was a surprising year, perhaps not in a good way for the Lions—who were expected to be strong contenders. Campbell described the team as a reflection of his own performance.

“It wasn’t good enough. I didn’t play and I underperformed,” he stated, as reported by Yahoo Sports. “That’s not good. I’d give myself the highest F.”

Despite finishing with a winning record of 9-8, the Lions weren’t able to secure a playoff spot, which has occurred for the first time since 2022, a notable low in recent years for the franchise.

Last season, the Lions performed exceptionally well, finishing 15-2 and earning the NFC’s top seed. But expectations fell flat in the divisional round against the Washington Commanders, who, under rookie Jaden Daniels, pulled off an upset at Ford Field.

Reflecting on the previous two seasons, Campbell recalled the Lions’ 12-5 record that led them to the NFC Championship Game versus the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers almost pulled off a dramatic comeback to make it to the Super Bowl, but a second-half stumble thwarted their chance.

Now, Campbell faces some adjustments within the coaching staff, particularly with two of his primary coordinators moving on to head coaching positions elsewhere. One of the biggest losses was Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator who helped guide Jared Goff and the Lions’ offense effectively before taking the Bears’ job in the NFC North.

Aaron Glenn, the defensive coordinator, experienced a rougher patch, as the New York Jets goal triumphed with a poor 3-14 record. Notably, Glenn was spared from dismissal during the recent “Black Monday,” being retained by the Jets through at least the start of the 2026 season.

Campbell expressed disbelief at how the season unfolded. After a promising start with a 4-1 record, consistency eluded the team, culminating in a disheartening loss to the Minnesota Vikings on Christmas Day that dashed their playoff aspirations.

“I can’t believe this is happening,” he said. “Watching these teams in the playoffs will be a tough pill to swallow. But I suppose you have to watch, to be driven to improve and aim for that next step.”

With the season behind him, Campbell now has to look forward, trusting his process and the team to rise again, though it will be a while until the playoffs come back into view in September.