ALLEN PARK, Mich. – Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell shared updates on the team’s status and outlook ahead of their upcoming game.
Regardingwide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, Campbell said, “It’s positive news, but he’s a little irritated. It’s a short week, so we’ll see. But I would say it’s still positive news.”
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Playoffs
On the possibility of giving younger players more reps with playoffs still in reach, Campbell said, “My thought right now is going in with what we’ve had, the guys that we feel give us a chance to win this game. So for the most part, it’ll be status quo.”
Kingsley
Campbell expressed encouragement about rookie center Kingsley Eguakun‘s recent performance.
“I was encouraged by Kingsley. I thought he did a good job. We’re weighing that right now, too. Graham Glasgow dealt with a knee a little bit, so just thinking about it,” Campbell said.
Blitz
When asked about improving against the blitz that troubled the Lions in their Week 9 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, Campbell emphasized teamwork and communication.
“It takes all of us. One of the big things is putting in a plan to handle some of this. There’s going to be a ton put on Jared Goff. He always has a lot on his plate. These guys present a lot of problems and challenges,” Campbell said.
Campbell stressed the importance of playing fast, honoring communication from the quarterback and center, and moving the ball efficiently.
Discussing last meeting against the Vikings and the protection issues against the blitz, Campbell said, “We have to be better. That’s on us as coaches. We made so many mistakes all over the map. We just have to eliminate the errors.”
Campbell explained the importance of backs, offensive line, and tight ends working together to chip and nudge defenders, and receivers playing faster than the rush.
Pro Bowl
Campbell praised linebacker Jack Campbell, recently named to the Pro Bowl.
“He’s gotten better every year. He’s been on an upward trajectory. He just works. He’s a workhorse and loves the ball. His production speaks for itself. He’s taken more reps than anybody on this team so far,” Dan said.
Including Jack, the NFL named five Lions players: running back Jahmyr Gibbs, Aidan Hutchinson, Penei Sewell, and St. Brown.
Christmas
Former Michigan Wolverines College Football Playoff national champion J.J. McCarthy has been ruled out of the Christmas showdown vs. Detroit after suffering a hairline fracture in his throwing hand during their Week 16 victory over the New York Giants.
Regarding Minnesota’s quarterback, Max Brosmer, Dan noted, “If you give him time, he can throw it. He’s accurate and has receivers to throw to. We have to disrupt him and not let the run game get going. They’ll lean on the run game to alleviate pressure.”
On playing on Christmas Day, Campbell said, “It’s on the schedule. We roll. It’s what we’re doing. We’re going to be ready.”
Campbell shared a light-hearted holiday memory about his dad always giving him underwear for Christmas, a running joke in his family.
“I laugh because my dad would always get me underwear for Christmas. That was always the running joke. It was just some tidy whities. And actually, mom got them, but he always said they were from him. That was his recommendation. Always makes me laugh. But no, that’s not something I’ve passed on to my kids. But anyway, Christmas is a special time. You know, I love Christmas and family and friends and all that. And so we just need to win.”
Vikings
On facing Vikings coach Brian Flores and his complex defensive schemes, Campbell said, “You have to be ready for everything. He keeps you on your toes. It takes all of us, including me.”
Regarding Goff handling complex protections, Dan said, “It’ll be more on Goff, but Kingsley knows what we need to do and will make alterations if needed.”
On rookie defensive tackle Tyleik Williams, Dan noted his growth and decreasing inconsistencies, especially in the run game.
“He’s improved every week. That’s the growth of a rookie. He’s in a good rotation with Alim McNeill, Roy Lopez, and D.J. Reader,” Dan said.
Kickoff is slated for Christmas, Thursday, Dec. 25, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. on Netflix.