INDIANAPOLIS – Lions head coach Dan Campbell spoke to the media Tuesday as his staff gathers at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine to evaluate the 319 prospects looking to impress teams and improve their draft stock this week.
Campbell’s media session covered a little bit of everything. Here are my five biggest takeaways:
Drew Petzing is still getting up to speed with Detroit’s terminology on offense but has already been getting together with quarterback Jared Goff, and Campbell likes the possibilities for this offense under Petzing’s direction in 2026.
“I’ve always liked Drew from afar,” Campbell said. “Through the years, what he was able to do offensively, I always liked it. There was creativity to it. We’re going to be versatile. He gives us that ability to make the most of what we have.”
Petzing, 38, was the offensive coordinator in Arizona under former Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon the last three seasons. There are schematic elements to his offense that make him a good fit in Detroit, most importantly his commitment to having a solid rushing attack.
Petzing understands protections and has coached every offensive position group in the league. Campbell said he knew Petzing was going to be his guy within the first 20 minutes of the interview as he loved Petzing’s presence and the detail in everything they talked about.
“I’ve seen the tape. I know what the tape is. I just think he’s a creative guy and can make things happen. ‘Tell me what I got and I’ll figure this out.’ I love that,” Campbell said.
Campbell also said he was fortunate to hire pass game coordinator Mike Kafka, who has already added some good ideas offensively.
