ALLEN PARK, Mich. – Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell spoke about the team’s final big practice of training camp, roster decisions, and his philosophy on football as the regular season approaches.
Campbell expressed excitement about the competitive practice ahead and respect for Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans and his team’s style of play.
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“They hustle, they hit, they’re disciplined. It’ll be a good test for us,” said Campbell.
When asked about activating a player like defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo, who has been out for an extended period, Campbell acknowledged the difficulty of evaluating readiness with limited practice time.
“He’s done all he can do to this point. Now it’s time for football to see where he’s at. It’s tough. There’s no easy answer to that,” Campbell said.
Regarding players like defensive end Josh Paschal, Campbell said his return might be later than hoped, which clarifies roster decisions.
“That could sting a little bit. It also cleans it up, too. At least you’re not hoping and waiting,” Campbell said.
Campbell described the challenge of finalizing the 53-man roster amid strong competition.
“We’re looking for the best 69 players we can find. We’re going to need all of them,” Campbell said.
Campbell emphasized balancing the body of work over camp with recent performance improvements when making decisions.
“Body of work is always going to speak for itself, but if you’re a late climber. Now, today is pretty significant,” Campbell said.
Campbell said his evaluation philosophy has remained consistent since he arrived, but roster circumstances have changed.
“Any changes that were made were because of where we’re at now roster-wise. I wouldn’t say philosophy anything has changed,” Campbell said.
Campbell highlighted the growing importance of depth on the roster and practice squad.
“That vet squad is going to be very important,” Campbell said.
On trusting the team’s personnel director, Brad Holmes, for roster decisions, Campbell said, “If he says somebody’s going to make it through, they make it through. I trust that.”
When asked about keeping three quarterbacks on the roster, Campbell acknowledged the trade-off with depth at other positions.
“You lose depth in D-line or O-line or receiver or defensive back, or linebacker. Depth, depth, depth,” Campbell said.
Campbell reaffirmed his belief in the importance of running the ball and stopping the run as foundational to team success.
“If you’ve got a strong ground game, it opens up your offense. Defensively, if you can’t stop the run, good luck. It’s demoralizing,” Campbell said.
Campbell praised the Texans as a promising young team with good coaching and talent, looking forward to practicing against them.
“They’re going to be a juggernaut for years to come,” Campbell said.
Campbell also complimented former Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Nico Collins for his skills and impact on the offense.
“He’s a crafty route runner, plays strong, plays physical, elevates that offense,” Campbell said.