In 1999, Sean Payton was serving as the quarterbacks coach and later became the offensive coordinator when the Giants selected tight end Dan Campbell. Campbell, primarily used as a blocking tight end in Payton’s system, managed only 43 receptions over four seasons with the Giants, yet Payton admired his ruggedness.
As head coach of the New Orleans Saints, Payton recalled Campbell’s resilience and brought him on board as an assistant coach in 2016.
During the NFL’s annual spring meeting on Monday, Payton praised Campbell’s achievements from the previous season in his second year as the Detroit Lions’ head coach, a period fans hope marks an outstanding change for the struggling team.
“I watched some incredibly tough games from Detroit over a stretch, and it was great to see that shift,” Payton told the Detroit Free Press. “We’ve seen a 60-yard field goal hit the crossbar, and Campbell embodies grit and determination.”
Campbell’s first season with the Lions ended with a 3-13-1 record, including three losses on the final play and six losses by eight points or fewer, such as Justin Tucker’s record-breaking 66-yard field goal that narrowly missed as time ran out.
Payton remarked, “After Campbell’s career ended, I tried for years to hire him. It’s challenging to recruit a coach who is under contract, but I finally succeeded.”
“He’s intelligent, tough, and passionate, which is crucial in our field. Campbell excels as a teacher and communicator with his players. He might not always tell them what they want to hear, but they appreciate his honesty,” Payton continued.
Last season, the Lions posted a 9-8 record and remained in playoff contention until the final week. Campbell expressed deep gratitude towards Payton, stating, “Sean has believed in me more than anyone else in this profession. He gave me a chance as both a player and a coach, and I can’t thank him enough for that.”
Campbell acknowledged that Payton taught him crucial aspects of in-game coaching and staff management, for which he will always be thankful.