ALLEN PARK, Mich. – Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell opened mandatory minicamp, expressing optimism about his team’s health, roster competition, and the continued development of several young players as preparations for training camp begin.
Campbell said on Tuesday (June 16) there were no significant new injury concerns entering minicamp, with only the team’s usual group of recovering players unavailable for full participation.
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Tight end Sam LaPorta is progressing as expected and remains on track to be ready for the start of training camp.
“We like where he’s going,” said Campbell. “He’s trending the right way.”
The Lions also welcomed back several players who had recently been sidelined by illness, helping bolster participation for the two-day minicamp.
Competition heats up along offensive, defensive lines
Competition remains a central theme throughout the roster, particularly along the offensive and defensive lines.
Campbell said the coaching staff is eager to see battles intensify once training camp begins and contact resumes.
“You see what it’s going to be, what it can become going into training camp,” Campbell said. “When it becomes live and real bullets are flying, that fires us up.”
One of the most closely watched competitions will be at left guard. Campbell confirmed the position remains open despite Christian Mahogany taking the majority of first-team reps during organized team activities.
Mahogany, entering his third NFL season, has shown promise after appearing in several games last year, but Campbell emphasized that veterans and younger players alike will have opportunities to earn the role.
“There’s a reason why we brought in competition,” Campbell said. “We’re going to let this thing go and see what happens.”
Campbell on balance, burnout, brotherhood with coaching staff
Campbell also addressed the challenges of balancing the demands of coaching with personal well-being during the offseason.
Asked how he avoids burnout, the typically energetic coach joked, “I just burn to ashes and then come back up.”
Campbell acknowledged the consuming nature of coaching but said experience has helped him become more mindful of finding balance.
“This job is consuming,” he said. “But that’s because we love it. It’s addictive.”
Part of that balance included a recent annual retreat with his coaching staff and their families in northern Michigan. Campbell described the trip as an opportunity for coaches and their spouses to reconnect and recharge before the season.
“We’re like brothers,” Campbell said of his coaching staff. “To be able to bring the wives and everybody together and just kick back and relax, it always helps.”
Campbell also reflected on what a championship would mean to Detroit, comparing the city’s passionate fan base to those that have endured long waits for titles elsewhere.
“That’s what we’re striving for,” Campbell said. “It’s about winning a championship. That’s why we’re in this business.”
Young players drawing praise heading into training camp
Several young players drew praise from Campbell, including wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa, who emerged as a trusted contributor late last season.
Campbell said TeSlaa’s growth has continued throughout the offseason.
“He’s just steady. He’s consistent,” Campbell said. “He feels like a veteran right now.”
Campbell also highlighted running back Sione Vaki‘s athleticism and potential versatility, though he noted the former college defender is still developing at the position after limited opportunities due to injuries.
“If he helps us move the football and win, we’re going to find a way to put him on the field,” Campbell said.
Defensive back Dan Jackson and linebacker Colby Sorsdal also remain players the organization is watching closely after injuries limited their development.
Campbell said both will benefit most from gaining live repetitions during training camp and preseason games.
“Our eyes are open,” Campbell said. “He’s got an opportunity.”
Coaching staff adjustments round out minicamp conversations
Campbell concluded by discussing adjustments within the coaching staff.
With Jim O’Neil taking on assistant head coach responsibilities alongside associate head coach Scottie Montgomery, Campbell said some of his own duties will be delegated, while Montgomery will remain one of his primary trusted advisers.
“We’re fortunate,” Campbell said. “As a head coach, to have both of them.”
The Lions will conclude mandatory minicamp on Wednesday before breaking for the summer ahead of training camp.