Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell is a man known for his passion, his fire, and a dedication like no other to the Detroit Lions organization. From the emotion of his post game speeches, to the press conferences and always the championship aspirations, Campbell has easily become one of the most respected head coaches in the NFL.
Lions Head Coach Discusses Avoiding Burnout
The Lions head coach received an interesting question at Lions minicamp practice on Tuesday. “How, given the emotional drain and the long season in the NFL, do you as a coach, avoid burnout and get refreshed for the next season.”
Coach Campbell’s immediate reply, that had the room laughing was,
” I just burn to ashes, then come back up”
Clearly Campbell meant that as as a joke, and quickly followed up with more context.
“No. Look, it’s a good question. I try to be mindful of that. I try to get the work done, but also be smart as smart as I can in the offseason. I feel like every year you’re a little bit more in tune with that and yourself. I’m not perfect about it.”
Many consider the Lions head coach to be one of the most intense coaches in football but in those statements, he gives a glimpse into the other side of him. Underneath the intensity is a coach who recognizes the importance of self awareness and understands that no one can work at that level consistently. The fact that Campbell could admit to himself that he is not perfect when it comes to avoiding burnout in the NFL is a good indicator that he understands it has to be addressed and must be guarded against, no matter the coach.
Coach Campbell on how he prevents burnout pic.twitter.com/CHGLGH0LF2
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) June 16, 2026
Lions Coach Explains Why it is Hard to Disconnect
From there, Campbell explained why it’s so hard for coaches to disconnect:
“This job is consuming, but we love it. I’m sure most coaches would tell you that. It’s addictive. It’s consuming. That’s where you’ve got to be careful.
But I’ll have a chance to step away for a minute and get out and be ready to go.”
These remarks are probably the most insight the reporter gained. The Lions head coach knows the truth that all coaches in the NFL recognize. The grind of the NFL is a time consuming effort in so many facets of life. While the obsession is a reason for the Lions’ success, it’s also a good reason for them to burn out if a person can’t take a break to get some work done to bring them back to full strength.
Campbell is Not Apologetic for Being Consumed by the NFL
What is interesting is that Campbell is not apologizing for being so consumed by the game; he embraces it. As he mentions, the game is addictive for the nature of competition, preparation, and a chance for the championship trophy. However, even coaches must find an escape. This separation from the game at the right time, can be the difference between a great coach who can maintain a consistent level, and the coach that gets tired out.
As we approach the upcoming season, Campbell appears to be approaching the season with the right mindset. This Lions head coach seems to be fully committed to his job, yet understands the importance of having a break before a rigorous NFL season gets underway.
Campbell’s batteries may get a chance to recharge this summer, but do not expect them to stay full for long. Training camp is right around the corner, and the Lions head coach already sounds eager to get back to work.
Main Image: Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
