Detroit Lions cornerback Carlton Davis has expressed his admiration for head coach Dan Campbell, and it may be the deciding factor in his potential return to the team. In a recent interview on the “Slightly Decent” podcast, Davis shared his appreciation for Campbell’s leadership style, which emphasizes accountability, relatability, and praise for players’ performances.
Davis recalled a specific instance where Campbell took full responsibility for a loss, telling his players, “Blame your coach.” This level of accountability is rare in the NFL, and Davis appreciated Campbell’s willingness to own up to his mistakes.
“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 said. “He took full accountability. I have never in my, what, 20 years of playing football have ever had a coach just say, ‘I lost the game for y’all.'”
Davis also praised Campbell’s ability to connect with his players on a personal level. He noted that Campbell makes an effort to talk to players every day, whether it’s at practice or in the locker room.
“Dan, he’s the type to talk to you damn near every day — at practice, just walking through the locker room,” Davis said. “He literally sat me down and done did this a couple times during the season (where) I had a good game, and he’d come up to me like, ‘Boy, you’re playing your ass off.’ He’ll just say that to you. After the game 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.”
Davis’s admiration for Campbell’s leadership style may be the key to his potential return to the Detroit Lions. As a free agent, Davis has the option to sign with any team, but his appreciation for Campbell’s coaching style may give the Lions an edge in retaining his services.
“He a real one. He’s my favorite head coach. I ain’t gonna lie, that I done played for,” Davis said. “That’s why I was out there trying to break my jaw for him.”
Only time will tell if Davis will return to the Lions, but one thing is certain: Dan Campbell’s leadership style has made a lasting impression on the veteran cornerback.
