Dan Campbell’s influence on Carlton Davis’s potential return to the Detroit Lions cannot be overstated. Davis, who’s set to become a free agent, has been vocal about his admiration for Campbell, calling him his “favorite head coach” he’s ever played for
Campbell’s unique approach to coaching has clearly resonated with Davis. The Lions’ head coach is known for being a player’s coach, taking ownership of mistakes, and praising his players in front of the entire team. Davis has specifically highlighted Campbell’s willingness to take accountability, citing an instance where Campbell took blame for a loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
This kind of leadership and camaraderie could be a major factor in Davis’s decision to return to the Lions. As Davis himself said, “He’s a real one… That’s why I was out there trying to break my jaw for him. This level of dedication and loyalty is a testament to the strong bond between Campbell and his players.
From a financial perspective, the Lions have the cap space to re-sign Davis, with an estimated $49.1 million available However, it’s likely that Davis will have multiple suitors in free agency, and the Lions will need to make a competitive offer to retain him.
Ultimately, Dan Campbell’s influence on Carlton Davis’s decision to return to the Lions will depend on a combination of factors, including the team’s financial offer, Campbell’s coaching style, and the overall team culture. However, based on Davis’s public comments, it’s clear that Campbell’s leadership has made a lasting impression on the cornerback.