Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell expressed his “indifference” towards a proposed alteration to the NFL’s offseason schedule, which is being advocated by the NFL Players Association (NFLPA). Campbell stated that he prioritizes what’s best for his team, regardless of the potential changes.
He emphasized his willingness to adapt to either scenario, whether it involves a longer training camp or maintaining the current split offseason schedule.
The NFLPA’s proposal aims to eliminate voluntary on-field work in spring in favor of an extended training camp period, with players reporting for a more prolonged ramp-up in late June or early July. This proposal is intended to enhance player health while still allowing teams to conduct classroom sessions during the spring.
Presently, the NFL offseason follows a structured regimen consisting of three phases: two weeks allocated for strength and conditioning workouts, followed by three weeks of limited on-field activities, and concluding with four weeks of pad-less practices. All of these sessions are voluntary, except for a mandatory three-day minicamp held during Phase 3.
Typically, training camp commences in late July, with most teams engaging in three preseason games before commencing a 17-game regular season schedule.
The proposed changes would necessitate collective bargaining for adoption, with some viewing it as the NFLPA’s response to the anticipated transition to an 18-game regular season schedule in the next collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
While Coach Campbell does not hold a strong stance on transitioning to an 18-game regular season, he believes that reducing the preseason to two games could hinder the development of young players.
“We’ve seen the vital role our young players played in our successes last year, highlighting the importance of their development,” Campbell remarked. “If they don’t receive the necessary reps to contribute effectively, that’s what we stand to lose. However, we’ll adapt and ensure they’re prepared to contribute when called upon.”
Regarding the offseason program, Campbell expressed ambivalence, stating, “I’m neutral at this point. Regardless of the outcome, we’ll adjust and make it work. We’re prepared to handle it either way.”
“During the self-scout period, we realized how valuable Josh was to our offense,” Johnson explained. “Many of his receptions resulted in big plays for us. With his departure, those opportunities now fall to others in our skill group. It’s essential for players to step up and make plays like he did.”
Last season, Reynolds recorded 40 receptions for 608 yards and five touchdowns, boasting a team-best average of 15.2 yards per catch among players with multiple receptions. Despite his impactful performance, the Lions opted not to make a substantial offer to retain Reynolds in free agency. He ultimately signed a two-year, $9 million contract with the Denver Broncos in April.
Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams are set to lead the Lions’ receiving corps this upcoming season, with Kalif Raymond, Donovan Peoples-Jones, and Antoine Green in contention to step up as the team’s third option.
According to Johnson, potential replacements for Reynolds could include players who didn’t have significant production last season, such as Antoine Green or Peoples-Jones, or even individuals from other positions, like David Montgomery or Jahmyr Gibbs in the running game, or additional targets for Sam LaPorta. The focus during spring practices and training camp will be on identifying not only the primary contributors but also determining how to distribute opportunities among the roster as the season progresses.
