Since joining the Detroit Lions in 2021, Dan Campbell has been one of the most talked-about head coaches in the league.
Between his introductory press conference, performance on Hard Knocks, and the product that the Lions put on the field, it’s clear that the organization has made a deep cultural shift.
However, when the NFL announced finalists for their awards yesterday, Campbell was snubbed from one honor in particular, causing a league-wide uproar.
Dan Campbell snubbed. Changing a historically toxic culture caused by so much losing to a team that players make public pleas to be brought back to is an incredible accomplishment. He wins next year after the Lions make a deep playoff run or we riot https://t.co/dVSTCWxrxe
— Kellie Rowe (@kellierowe) January 25, 2023
Campbell was not selected as a Coach of the Year finalist.
Many have called this out as a snub, including Lions analyst Kellie Rowe.
Campbell has completely changed the culture of the Lions organization.
Gone away are the days of misery, self-deprecation, and loss.
Although they started 1-6 in 2022, the fact that the Lions ended the season with a record of 9-8 and just missed the playoffs is truly remarkable.
Another example of this cultural shift is the fact that they retained offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, despite him taking head coaching interviews.
With Campbell and Johnson at the helm for another season, the Lions will look to grow their success next season, with aspirations of not only making the playoffs but winning the NFC North for the first time in 23 years.
Because they traded with the Los Angeles Rams for Matthew Stafford, the Lions will have two first-round picks this year, including the sixth and eighteenth overall.
This will provide an excellent opportunity for the Lions to add young pieces, either on the offensive or defensive side of the ball.
NEXT: The Lions Are Rewarding OC Ben Johnson For Staying
