Carlton Davis Praises Dan Campbell as One of the NFL’s Best Coaches

A Leader Players Admire

Detroit Lions cornerback Carlton Davis recently expressed his deep admiration for head coach Dan Campbell, adding to the growing chorus of players who view Campbell as one of the most respected leaders in the NFL. Appearing on the ‘Slightly Decent’ podcast, the 28-year-old cornerback detailed what makes Campbell such a unique and effective head coach.

Relatability and Accountability

One of Campbell’s defining traits is his ability to relate to his players while holding them accountable. Davis emphasized how Campbell’s leadership style sets him apart from other coaches in the league. Former Lions player Saivion Smith and ex-Tampa Bay Buccaneer Vernon Hargreaves joined the conversation, echoing Davis’ sentiments.

According to Davis, Campbell’s transparency and willingness to take responsibility resonate deeply with his players. He recalled a moment when Campbell openly shouldered the blame for a loss, an experience Davis found incredibly rare in his football career.

“He went in the locker room. Bro, he was crying. He was like, ‘Blame your coach.’ He was really like, ‘Blame your coach. You can blame me. You can blame me,’” Davis recounted. “He took full accountability. I have never in my 20 years of playing football had a coach just say, ‘I lost the game for y’all.’ And there’s plenty of other plays guys could’ve made.”

A Coach Who Supports His Players

Campbell’s ability to connect with players goes beyond accountability. He also takes time to recognize and uplift his team members. Davis described how Campbell regularly offers praise, something many coaches fail to do.

“Dan, he’s the type to talk to you damn near every day—at practice, just walking through the locker room. He literally sat me down a couple of times during the season when I had a good game and said, ‘Boy, you’re playing your ass off,’” Davis explained. “After the game, he’d be like, ‘Boy, you’re more than just a cover corner. You’re physical, too!’ And he’ll say that in front of the whole team. That’s the first time a coach has ever done that.”

Recognition for the Little Things

Campbell’s coaching approach isn’t just about motivating star players. He also values and highlights the unseen efforts that contribute to the team’s success. A behind-the-scenes video captured Campbell praising wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown for his blocking efforts during a lopsided loss against the Baltimore Ravens, emphasizing the importance of every player’s contributions.

Davis pointed out how rare it is for coaches to acknowledge small but crucial plays.

“Not just for me, but for other players, too. And he highlights, ‘This guy is going crazy.’ St. Brown blocking. St. Brown will block the st out of somebody, but that’s something that will go under the radar. Everybody ain’t glorifying that,” Davis said. “But he’s glorifying that in front of the team like, ‘This is what I’m talking about!’ So you know when you’re doing st, he watches everything. But, he’ll also give you your flowers, too. A lot of coaches don’t do that.”

A Coach Worth Fighting For

Campbell’s impact on his players is undeniable, and his leadership has created a culture in Detroit where athletes want to give their all. Davis’ admiration for Campbell is so strong that it could influence his decision in free agency.

“He a real one. He’s my favorite head coach, I ain’t gonna lie, that I done played for,” Davis admitted. “That’s why I was out there trying to break my jaw for him.”

With Campbell at the helm, the Lions have built an environment where players feel valued, motivated, and willing to fight for their team. As Detroit continues to rise in the NFL ranks, it’s clear that Campbell’s leadership is a driving force behind the team’s success.