According to a report from Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic, Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman and Larkin’s agent, Pat Brisson, have maintained open communication since news of the captain’s trade request became public. Rather than turning contentious, discussions between the two sides have reportedly remained professional and productive as they work toward a solution.

One notable development involves the list of teams Larkin would be willing to join.

When reports first surfaced, the Florida Panthers, Vegas Golden Knights, and Minnesota Wild were believed to be the primary destinations on Larkin’s radar. However, that may no longer be the case.

According to LeBrun, Yzerman asked Brisson to expand the original list of acceptable trade destinations, and Brisson was reportedly receptive to that request.

That could significantly alter the landscape of any potential trade talks.

For the Red Wings, a larger pool of interested teams would create more opportunities to maximize the return for one of the NHL’s top centers. Larkin remains under contract through the 2030-31 season and owns a full no-trade clause, giving him substantial control over where he plays next.

While neither Larkin nor the organization has publicly commented on the situation, it appears both sides understand the importance of working together through the process.

The coming weeks could prove pivotal as the NHL Draft approaches and trade discussions around the league begin to intensify.

For now, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: if a Dylan Larkin trade happens, the list of possible landing spots may be larger than originally believed.

According to manager A.J. Hinch, via Brad Galli, Skubal came through his recent bullpen session without any issues, an important step as the left-hander works his way back from elbow surgery that sidelined him in early May.

“He’s checking every box,” Hinch said. “Today was another step towards that. I like where it’s going. I like where he is describing his normal work days. Everything is normal today, which is the best news we could get.”

Those comments may not sound dramatic, but for a pitcher returning from an elbow procedure, “normal” is exactly what the Tigers want to hear. Teams closely monitor how a player feels during and after throwing sessions, and any setback can alter a recovery timeline. In Skubal’s case, the reports continue to be encouraging.

The reigning two-time American League Cy Young Award winner last pitched on April 29 before undergoing surgery to remove loose bodies from his elbow. Since then, Detroit has been forced to navigate a difficult stretch without the anchor of its rotation.

While Hinch cautioned against looking too far ahead, signs continue to point toward Skubal being available to return to Detroit’s rotation soon. Current expectations have him lined up for a potential start against the Cleveland Guardians on Saturday, assuming he continues to progress without complications.

For a Tigers club searching for stability during a challenging season, the return of one of baseball’s best pitchers cannot come soon enough. Every successful bullpen session brings Skubal one step closer to taking the mound at Comerica Park again.

Ever since that news broke, there has been plenty of debate about whether this fiasco is more about Larkin not stepping up as a captain should, or Steve Yzerman sucking at his job and not building a competitive roster despite having way more than enough time to do so.

Now, Darren McCarty has weighed in on the situation, and Larkin won’t like what the former Red Wings forward has to say.

“What do I always say? ‘You are either IN, or you are IN THE WAY, so you’re definitely in the way,” McCarty said. “And then we can put blame on this or that, or whatever, but I don’t want a guy, no matter if you’re the top guy, or the bottom guy. If you don’t want to be here, then I don’t want you here. This, I believe, will be one of the best things to happen to the Red Wings organization.”

It’s safe to say that McCarty is taking Yzerman’s side on this one!

According to the Detroit Free Press, Larkin’s list of preferred destinations is believed to include three teams: the Florida Panthers, Vegas Golden Knights, and Minnesota Wild.

That is where the conversation changed in Detroit. Red Wings fans were already dealing with the reality of their captain wanting out after 11 seasons, but the narrow Dylan Larkin trade list turned a painful split into a debate about leverage, return, and whether the franchise is now boxed in.

The reaction is about more than the request

Larkin asking out was always going to sting. He is the captain, a Michigan native, and one of the clearest links between the rebuild years and the current roster.

Fan reaction has not landed in one place. Responses gathered after the news broke showed blame going in both directions, with some frustration aimed at Larkin and some aimed at Steve Yzerman and the front office.

Why the three-team list changed the temperature

The strongest pushback is tied to the trade market itself. A full no-trade clause lets Larkin decide where he will not play, and a reported three-team approval list gives Detroit fewer paths to build a strong return if talks move forward.

Detroit still controls whether to make a deal. Larkin cannot force the exact trade package, but his clause shapes the field and narrows the bidding, which is why so much of the fan anger now centers on the business side of this Dylan Larkin trade situation instead of only the emotion.

The split had been building for a while

The context matters here. Tension with management had been brewing since at least the 2023 contract talks, and Detroit’s playoff drought has reached 10 seasons, the longest in franchise history, as laid out in the reporting on the trade request.

Larkin’s time in Detroit also included only one playoff appearance across 11 seasons with the Red Wings. That helps explain why some fans see this as a front-office failure, while others see the narrow Dylan Larkin trade list as a move that makes a hard situation even tougher on the team.

What Detroit has to solve now

The immediate question is no longer whether the relationship is strained. It is whether Detroit can find a trade market wide enough to make moving its captain worth it, or whether the Dylan Larkin trade list has to expand before anything serious can happen.

For Yzerman, the next move will define how much control the Red Wings still have in this process. For Larkin, it could shape whether his Detroit career ends with a deal the club can justify, or a standoff that drags into the season.

If actor Kevin James has his way, the answer is yes.

During an exclusive interview with Brad Galli of The Brad Galli Show at the Children’s Miracle Network golf outing in Rochester Hills, James was asked about his experience portraying Payton in the 2022 Netflix film Home Team and whether he’d be interested in revisiting the role for a sequel.

The answer came quickly.

Kevin James Loved Playing Sean Payton

James recalled having a great time working alongside the former Saints coach while preparing for the movie.

“We had a lot of fun doing it. It was a great experience being around Sean. During the draft process, he brought us into the war room and showed us how everything was done. He was just fun to be around. We had a blast shooting that movie.”

Not surprisingly, James also found humor in the experience.

“The only problem was that it felt like it was 138 degrees out there. I definitely sweat a lot more than he did.”

A Dan Campbell Movie? Kevin James Is All In

When Galli floated the idea of a sequel featuring Payton and Campbell coaching against one another in the Super Bowl, James immediately embraced the concept.

“I would love to do that one.”

Then came the obvious question.

Who should play Dan Campbell?

James didn’t hesitate.

“By the way, if I really needed to, I could do it. I could step up easy.”

The veteran comedian wasn’t done there.

Kevin James Wants to Play Both Coaches

Rather than casting someone else as Campbell, James suggested an even more entertaining idea.

Why not let him play both roles?

“That would be a great one. I think they should do that. Give Dan Campbell a movie. Absolutely. Why not?”

Moments later, he doubled down on the idea.

“Sure, why not? I could do both roles. Wouldn’t that be great? That’d be different.”

James even outlined his strategy for pulling off the dual performance.

“I’d love to do it. I really would. It’s just a bigger lunch one day and then you calm down the next day. It’d be fun.”

Lions Fans Would Watch

While a Home Team sequel remains purely hypothetical, it’s easy to see why the idea is appealing.

Campbell has become one of the NFL’s most recognizable personalities, transforming the Lions into contenders while building a reputation for his authenticity, toughness, and unforgettable press conferences.

If Hollywood ever decides to make a movie centered around Campbell, Kevin James has already submitted his audition tape.

And apparently, he’s prepared to play both sidelines if necessary.

According to NFL insider Ari Meirov, Cleveland Browns guard Joel Bitonio has announced his retirement after 12 seasons in the league. The veteran leaves the game with an impressive résumé that includes seven Pro Bowl selections and five First-Team All-Pro honors.

While Bitonio never played a snap for the Detroit Lions, his name was a familiar one among Lions fans throughout the 2026 offseason.

Joel Bitonio Was a Popular Name Among Lions Fans

As free agency approached earlier this year, many Detroit fans and analysts viewed Bitonio as a potential fit for a Lions team looking to maintain one of the league’s top offensive lines.

The veteran guard’s combination of leadership, durability, and elite play made him an attractive option, especially for a contender looking to add experience in the trenches.

Ultimately, the speculation never turned into anything substantial.

A Career Defined by Consistency

Bitonio was selected by the Browns in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft and quickly became one of the franchise’s foundational players.

Over the next decade, he established himself as one of the premier guards in football, earning recognition as one of the most technically sound and dependable offensive linemen in the NFL.

Even while Cleveland experienced coaching changes, roster turnover, and varying levels of success, Bitonio remained a constant.

Few players at any position have maintained such a high level of performance for such an extended period.

What Could Have Been

It’s easy to understand why Lions fans were intrigued by the possibility of adding a player like Bitonio.

Detroit’s offense is built around physicality, a solid offensive line, and controlling games at the line of scrimmage. Bitonio’s skill set would have fit naturally into that identity.

However, the Lions have reached a point where they no longer need to chase big-name veterans to fill holes. Holmes and Dan Campbell have built a roster capable of developing its own stars, and that approach has become one of the organization’s greatest strengths.

A Career Worth Remembering

Whether you rooted for the Browns or simply appreciated great offensive line play, Bitonio’s career deserves recognition.

Seven Pro Bowls. Five All-Pro selections. Twelve seasons with one franchise.

Those accomplishments place him among the best guards of his generation.

For Lions fans who hoped he might someday wear Honolulu Blue, that possibility is now gone.

For Joel Bitonio, retirement comes with a legacy few offensive linemen ever achieve.

Did the Lions uncover another hidden quarterback gem in undrafted rookie Luke Altmyer?

Nobody is suggesting Altmyer is about to follow the exact path of San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy. But after just a few weeks in Allen Park, the rookie signal-caller has generated enough buzz that some Lions fans have already started making the comparison.

And while it may be premature, there are a few reasons why the conversation has gained traction.

Luke Altmyer Is Turning Heads Early

Whenever undrafted rookie quarterbacks arrive in the NFL, the odds are stacked heavily against them.

Yet Altmyer has quietly become one of the more talked-about newcomers at Lions OTAs.

The praise isn’t centered on arm strength or highlight-reel throws. Instead, it has been his command of the offense and ability to process information quickly that have caught the attention of Detroit’s coaching staff.

Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing recently explained what has impressed him most.

“I think the emphasis is very similar to what we just talked about with the O-line,” He said as quoted by A to Z Sports. “How quickly can you pick it up?”

Petzing pointed out that playing quarterback involves much more than throwing the football.

“You’ve got to call the plays, you’ve got to get in and out of the huddle, you’ve got the quarterback position, you’re responsible for the 10 other guys. Are they doing what they’re supposed to be doing, or when they’re not, can you correct it before it matters?”

The Lions coach praised Jared Goff for mastering those responsibilities and believes Altmyer is embracing the challenge of building those habits from scratch.

“I think that’s a big part of the process of playing quarterback and something that Jared does at such a high level that you almost start to take it for granted.”

“I think it’s great for Luke. I think he’s really embraced that and I think that’s been kind of the fun thing to get to work with him.”

Dan Campbell Likes What He’s Seeing

Head coach Dan Campbell offered a shorter but equally telling assessment of Altmyer’s early work.

“Yeah, he didn’t lack confidence for sure.”

Confidence is often one of the first traits coaches notice in young quarterbacks.

The NFL can quickly expose uncertainty at the position. Altmyer appears to be carrying himself like someone who believes he belongs.

That doesn’t guarantee success, but it’s certainly a good starting point.

Why the Brock Purdy Comparison Exists

The comparison isn’t necessarily about talent level.

It’s more about style of play.

Like Purdy coming out of college, Altmyer is viewed as a quarterback who wins with timing, decision-making, rhythm, and understanding of the offense rather than overwhelming physical tools.

Purdy entered the NFL as the final pick of the 2022 draft and eventually became one of the league’s most remarkable success stories. His ability to operate efficiently within structure helped him exceed expectations and seize San Francisco’s starting job.

Those are some of the same qualities Detroit coaches appear to appreciate in Altmyer.

But there is an important distinction.

Purdy didn’t become successful simply because he managed games.

He developed into a legitimate playmaker capable of making off-schedule throws, extending plays, and elevating an offense.

That’s a level Altmyer still has to prove he can reach.

The Realistic Path Forward

As exciting as the early reviews have been, perspective is important.

The Lions are still in OTA practices. There are no live pass rushers, no preseason games, and no meaningful competition yet.

Altmyer’s immediate challenge is not becoming the next Brock Purdy.

It’s earning a spot on the roster.

Veteran Teddy Bridgewater currently projects as Detroit’s backup quarterback behind Jared Goff, meaning Altmyer’s most realistic path may be convincing the Lions to carry a third quarterback.

Training camp and preseason games will ultimately determine how much of the early hype is real.

Why Lions Fans Should Pay Attention

The Lions have built one of the NFL’s deepest rosters by consistently finding overlooked talent.

Whether it was Malcolm Rodriguez, Christian Mahogany, or several key undrafted contributors over the years, Detroit has shown an ability to identify players other teams overlooked.

It’s far too early to know whether Altmyer belongs in that category.

But one thing is becoming clear.

The rookie quarterback has already made an impression.

And for an undrafted free agent trying to carve out a future in the NFL, that’s a pretty good place to start.

The rotation remains one of the biggest factors in Detroit’s next steps. When starters pitch well, they can keep games close, reduce pressure on the bullpen, and give the offense more time to produce. When starters struggle or leave early, the bullpen has to cover more innings, late-game decisions become harder, and one rough outing can affect the next few games too. 

Skubal’s Return Could Reset the Staff

Tarik Skubal is still the most important pitcher in Detroit’s rotation picture. Before his injury, he had a 3-2 record, 2.70 ERA, 0.95 WHIP, and 45 strikeouts in 43.1 innings. Baseball betting lines show why his return matters so much. He gives the Tigers a starter who can control games, limit traffic, and give the rest of the staff more structure.

Detroit’s season shifted dramatically after Skubal’s last start. The Tigers went 7–22 in that stretch, highlighting how much more difficult things became without his presence in the rotation. His return would not fix every issue on the roster, but it could give the rotation a clear leader again. That matters because a struggling team needs stability before anything else can improve.

The Rotation Has Been Better Than the Record

Detroit’s record does not fully explain how the rotation has performed. Even after losing Skubal, Justin Verlander, and Casey Mize to injuries, the Tigers’ starters still had a 3.85 ERA, which ranked fifth-best in MLB. Their 3.58 FIP ranked third-best in MLB, which suggests the pitching quality has often been stronger than the final results show. 

This also means Detroit still has something useful to build around. A rotation with strong underlying numbers can keep a team competitive if the offense, bullpen, and defense do their part. However, injuries have made it harder for the Tigers to keep that quality steady every series. If the rotation stays solid, Detroit can avoid letting the season fall apart completely.

Injuries Are Testing Detroit’s Depth

As mentioned, the biggest concern for Detroit is how many rotation pieces have been unavailable. Skubal has been recovering from elbow surgery, Mize has been dealing with right groin tightness, and Jackson Jobe is on the 60-day injured list after Tommy John surgery. Reese Olson is also out for the 2026 season after right shoulder surgery. 

Because of that, Detroit’s depth is no longer just a backup plan. It has become a major part of the season. When multiple starters are unavailable, the team is forced to rely on replacement arms, shorter outings, and increased bullpen usage to get through games. That can work for a short stretch, but it becomes much harder across a long regular season.

Flaherty’s Form Could Change the Middle

Jack Flaherty is one of the most important swing pieces in the rotation. He entered his June 2 start at 0-7 with a 5.81 ERA, and Detroit was only 2-10 in his starts. Those numbers show why his outings have become a major concern. When a regular starter struggles that much, it puts pressure on the rest of the staff to be nearly perfect.

There are still some better signs beneath the surface. Flaherty recorded 20 strikeouts against just one walk over his previous 15 innings, a stretch that suggests his command may be trending in the right direction. If that level of control holds, he could settle into a more reliable middle-of-the-rotation role. Detroit needs that because the staff cannot depend only on injured starters returning.

Mize’s Health Matters More Now

Casey Mize’s health is another key part of Detroit’s rotation outlook. He landed on the 15-day injured list with right groin tightness, retroactive to May 28. Statistical MLB Game Breakdowns pointed to a possible early-to-mid-June return, which would be an important time for the Tigers. 

Mize does not need to carry the whole rotation by himself. His value is tied to giving the Tigers more balance and fewer emergency pitching plans. When a team is short on starters, even one healthy arm can change how the bullpen is used during a series. His return could help Detroit manage games with a little more order.

Mound in Motown

Detroit’s rotation remains central to its 2026 season because injuries have forced the Tigers to rely more heavily on depth and replacement arms. Tarik Skubal’s absence has been especially important, as Detroit went 7-22 after his last appearance. Jack Flaherty’s struggles have added more pressure, especially with his 0-7 record and 5.81 ERA entering his June 2 start.

The starters still posted a 3.85 ERA and 3.58 FIP, showing there is still quality in the staff. Flaherty’s recent 20 strikeouts and only one walk over 15 innings also point to possible improvement. Casey Mize’s return could give Detroit another regular starter, while Skubal’s return would bring back the clear leader of the rotation.

Just days after reports surfaced that the Detroit Red Wings captain had requested a trade, a new report has shed light on where the longtime face of the franchise may be hoping to continue his NHL career.

According to the Detroit Free Press, Larkin’s list of preferred destinations is believed to include three teams: the Florida Panthers, Vegas Golden Knights, and Minnesota Wild.

With a full no-trade clause in his contract through next season, Larkin holds significant control over the situation. If the Red Wings ultimately decide to move their captain, it will likely be to a destination approved by the player himself.

Florida tops the list

One of the most intriguing potential landing spots is the Florida Panthers.

Larkin recently helped Team USA capture a gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics, playing alongside Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk. Florida also offers several attractive off-ice benefits, including no state income tax and significantly less media pressure than many traditional hockey markets.

The biggest obstacle could be Detroit itself.

Trading a franchise cornerstone within the Atlantic Division would be a difficult pill to swallow for Steve Yzerman, especially if Larkin helps turn a division rival into a Stanley Cup contender.

Vegas remains a premier destination

The Vegas Golden Knights have become one of the NHL’s model franchises since entering the league less than a decade ago.

Whether it’s aggressive trades, coaching changes, or major free-agent signings, Vegas has consistently shown a willingness to do whatever it takes to remain in championship contention.

For a player reportedly frustrated by Detroit’s inability to break through after 10 consecutive seasons without a playoff appearance, the Golden Knights would offer an immediate opportunity to compete for the Stanley Cup.

Minnesota could offer a familiar reunion

The Minnesota Wild are another team reportedly on Larkin’s radar.

The appeal is easy to understand.

Minnesota features several of Larkin’s teammates from Team USA’s Olympic gold-medal squad, including Quinn Hughes, Matt Boldy, and Brock Faber. The Wild have also demonstrated an aggressive approach to roster building under general manager Bill Guerin, who acquired Hughes in a blockbuster deal last season.

For Larkin, Minnesota could provide both familiarity and a legitimate chance to compete deep into the playoffs.

What happens next?

For now, there remains far more speculation than certainty.

Neither Larkin, his agent Pat Brisson, nor Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman have publicly commented on the reported trade request.

What is clear is that this is no ordinary trade rumor.

Larkin is not only Detroit’s captain but also a Michigan native who has spent his entire NHL career with the organization. He is signed through the 2030-31 season and remains one of the league’s most respected two-way centers.

If a trade does happen, it would represent one of the most significant transactions in modern Red Wings history.

And with the NHL Draft approaching, all eyes will remain on Detroit to see whether this situation cools down—or escalates even further.

Speaking before Thursday’s OTA practice in Allen Park, Campbell offered an encouraging update on Reed’s recovery from the significant hamstring injury that derailed his 2025 season.

And from the sound of it, the veteran corner is looking much closer to his old self.

Lions Like What They’re Seeing From D.J. Reed

After joining Detroit this offseason, Reed entered the spring as one of the most important additions to Kelvin Sheppard’s defense.

The veteran cornerback is expected to play a key role opposite Terrion Arnold as the Lions look to improve a secondary that battled injuries throughout much of last season.

According to Campbell, Reed’s recovery is progressing well.

“I like where he’s at.”

The Lions coach also noted that Reed appears to be moving freely during offseason work.

“He’s moving well.”

Those comments are particularly encouraging considering the severity of the injury Reed dealt with last season.

Reed Overcame Significant Hamstring Injury

Reed’s 2025 campaign was interrupted in late September when he suffered a serious hamstring injury during Week 4.

The injury was severe enough to land him on injured reserve and force an extended recovery period.

While surgery was not required, the rehabilitation process lasted several weeks before Reed was eventually activated from injured reserve in November.

Campbell acknowledged that returning from that type of injury is rarely easy for a player at Reed’s position.

“That wasn’t an easy injury for a corner.”

He emphasized just how significant the injury was.

“It was a pretty significant hamstring injury.”

For defensive backs who rely heavily on speed, explosiveness, and change-of-direction ability, hamstring injuries can often linger long after a player returns to action.

That makes Reed’s progress even more noteworthy.

Early Signs Are Encouraging

Perhaps the most promising part of Campbell’s update came when discussing what he has observed firsthand during offseason practices.

“I like the way he looks running around right now.”

That observation aligns with what Lions insider Tim Twentyman recently reported after watching Reed during OTA practices.

According to Twentyman, Reed appears to be moving like the player Detroit expected when it signed him.

Twentyman noted that Reed “is moving well and looks like the player we saw in camp and early in the season last year before the injury.”

That’s exactly what the Lions were hoping to see heading into training camp.

Why Reed’s Return Matters

The Lions have made significant investments in their secondary over the past two years.

With Reed, Terrion Arnold, Brian Branch, Kerby Joseph, and several young defensive backs competing for roles, Detroit believes it has assembled one of the deepest defensive back groups in the NFC.

But Reed’s role is especially important.

The veteran corner brings experience, physicality, and proven coverage ability to a defense looking to take a major step forward in 2026.

As Twentyman pointed out, getting the best version of Reed could have a significant impact on Detroit’s defense.

And based on Campbell’s latest comments, the Lions are liking what they’re seeing so far.

Whether it was Jared Goff finding Amon-Ra St. Brown over the middle, hitting Sam LaPorta down the seam, or connecting with Jameson Williams deep downfield, Detroit’s offense thrived when defenses were forced to respect the run.

But as the 2025 season wore on, that aspect of the offense became far less effective.

On Thursday, Lions head coach Dan Campbell explained exactly why.

The Problem Wasn’t Play Action

According to Campbell, Detroit never abandoned its play-action concepts.

In fact, the Lions continued calling them throughout the second half of the season.

The problem was that opposing defenses no longer had the same reason to fear the running game.

“We tried a lot of play action.”

Campbell quickly pointed to the real issue.

“The issue was we weren’t running the ball particularly well late in the year.”

That decline had a ripple effect throughout the offense.

Play action works best when linebackers and safeties are forced to react aggressively to the threat of a handoff. Without a consistently effective rushing attack, defenses can stay disciplined and focus more attention on the passing game.

Everything Starts With the Run

Campbell made it clear that Detroit’s offensive philosophy has not changed.

No matter how much the NFL evolves into a passing league, the Lions still believe championship-caliber football begins with controlling the line of scrimmage.

“Everything here starts on the ground.”

And Campbell emphasized that isn’t changing anytime soon.

“It always will.”

The Lions have built their identity around physical football since Campbell arrived in Detroit. Even with an offense led by Jared Goff and a collection of elite playmakers, the running game remains the foundation.

Why the Running Game Matters in January

Campbell’s comments offered insight into how Detroit views postseason football.

The Lions may have one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses, but Campbell believes playoff success still depends on being able to run the football when opponents know it’s coming.

“If you want to go deep in the playoffs, you better be able to run the freaking ball.”

That mindset helps explain why Detroit has invested so heavily in its offensive line and why Jahmyr Gibbs is expected to take on an even larger role in 2026.

Campbell recently called Gibbs the team’s “bell cow” and said the Lions plan to put even more on his plate this season.

The Lions Still Believe in Play Action

Despite the struggles late last year, Campbell has no plans to move away from play action.

There is simply too much evidence showing how effective it can be when Detroit’s offense is operating at its best.

The Lions coach pointed to two key reasons why the concept remains a major part of the game plan.

“Our players are good at it.”

And perhaps most importantly:

“Our quarterback is outstanding at it.”

Throughout his career, Goff has been one of the NFL’s most effective quarterbacks operating off play fakes. When paired with a successful rushing attack, it becomes one of the most difficult offenses in football to defend.

Why This Matters for 2026

If Campbell’s comments reveal anything, it’s that the Lions believe the solution is straightforward.

Run the football better.

Everything else flows from there.

With Jahmyr Gibbs expected to serve as the focal point of the offense, a revamped offensive line, and Goff returning for another season under offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, Detroit expects its play-action game to return to form.

And if that happens, the Lions offense could once again become one of the NFL’s most dangerous units.

Speaking prior to Thursday’s OTA practice in Allen Park, Campbell made perhaps his strongest statement yet regarding running back Jahmyr Gibbs and his role in Detroit’s offense.

The message was simple.

Gibbs is no longer sharing the spotlight.

Dan Campbell: Jahmyr Gibbs Is the Lions’ Bell Cow

For much of his first two NFL seasons, Gibbs split backfield responsibilities while showcasing his game-breaking speed and versatility.

Now, entering his fourth season, Campbell says the Lions are prepared to build even more of their offense around the former first-round pick.

“Gibbs is going to be our bell cow.”

Campbell noted that Detroit already began moving in that direction last season.

“He became more of that last year.”

With Gibbs now firmly established as one of the league’s elite running backs, the Lions coach made it clear that the offense will continue flowing through him.

“We’re going to hang our hat on him quite a bit.”

The Numbers Suggest Campbell Is Right

If anyone questioned whether Gibbs could handle a featured role, his 2025 production offered a convincing answer.

In 17 games, Gibbs rushed 243 times for 1,223 yards and 13 touchdowns while averaging 5.0 yards per carry.

He was equally dangerous as a receiver, hauling in 77 receptions on 94 targets for 616 yards and five touchdowns.

Combined, Gibbs totaled 1,839 yards from scrimmage and scored 18 touchdowns.

Those numbers placed him among the NFL’s most productive offensive players and reinforced why Detroit views him as a centerpiece of the franchise moving forward.

Through his first three NFL seasons, Gibbs has already accumulated:

• 3,580 rushing yards
• 39 rushing touchdowns
• 181 receptions
• 1,449 receiving yards
• 49 total games played

At just 24 years old, he appears to be entering the prime of his career.

Why Campbell Believes Gibbs Is Different

Campbell’s confidence stems from more than statistics.

He believes Gibbs possesses a rare skill set that allows him to thrive in virtually any offensive system.

“He can run every scheme anybody has ever run.”

The Lions coach pushed back against the notion that Gibbs is simply a speed back who thrives in space.

“He’s not just an outside runner.”

“He’s not just a space runner.”

Instead, Campbell believes Gibbs has developed into a complete running back capable of creating opportunities even when blocking isn’t perfect.

“He can create his own space inside.”

That combination of vision, burst, and versatility is what separates Gibbs from many of his peers around the league.

Lions Expecting a Massive Season

The Lions aren’t planning to ease Gibbs into a larger role.

They’re embracing it.

Campbell admitted that Detroit’s coaching staff intends to challenge the star running back in every facet of the offense.

“We’re going to ask a lot of him.”

That workload will extend beyond traditional rushing attempts.

“We’re going to put a lot on his plate in both the run game and pass game.”

And if Campbell’s expectations are any indication, Detroit believes Gibbs’ best football may still be ahead of him.

“We expect him to have a big year for us.”

Given what he accomplished in 2025, that’s a statement that should grab the attention of the rest of the NFL.

Why This Matters

The Lions are entering 2026 with playoff expectations and championship aspirations.

While Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and the rest of Detroit’s offensive stars will play critical roles, Campbell’s comments make one thing clear.

Jahmyr Gibbs is the engine that will drive this offense.

And if he delivers the type of season the Lions expect, Detroit’s offense could once again be among the most dangerous units in football.

Draft great players. Develop them. Keep them.

That’s why a recent hypothetical trade proposal involving Sam LaPorta is generating plenty of discussion.

Following the NFL-shaking Myles Garrett trade to the Los Angeles Rams, Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay put together a list of blockbuster trade ideas that could create a similar level of buzz around the league. One proposal involved the Lions sending star tight end Sam LaPorta to the Kansas City Chiefs.

The suggested deal would look like this:

Detroit Lions receive:

• 2027 first-round pick
• 2027 third-round pick

Kansas City Chiefs receive:

• Sam LaPorta

While the proposal may seem outrageous at first glance, the compensation involved could force even Brad Holmes to think long and hard.

Why Sam LaPorta Was Mentioned as a Trade Candidate

LaPorta has been one of the most productive tight ends in football since entering the league.

After exploding onto the scene with 86 receptions, 889 receiving yards, and 10 touchdowns as a rookie, he quickly became one of Jared Goff’s favorite targets and a centerpiece of Detroit’s offense.

However, Kay pointed to a few factors that could theoretically make LaPorta available.

“Sam LaPorta may have lit the league on fire during a scintillating 86-catch, 889-yard, 10-touchdown rookie season a mere three years ago, but even he isn’t safe from being traded.”

The Bleacher Report writer also noted that LaPorta is entering the final year of his rookie contract.

“LaPorta is gearing up for the final year of his rookie deal, one set to pay him a modest $5.8 million in 2026. Despite his immense contributions when healthy, the Lions have yet to reach a long-term extension with the tight end.”

Why This Trade Makes Little Sense for Detroit

The proposed return is substantial.

A first-round pick and a third-round pick for a tight end would represent significant value.

The problem is that LaPorta is not just another tight end.

He’s one of the foundational pieces of Detroit’s offense.

The Lions learned exactly how valuable he is when injuries limited his availability during portions of the 2025 season. Detroit’s passing attack simply wasn’t the same without him on the field.

LaPorta’s ability to stretch the middle of the field, create mismatches against linebackers and safeties, and serve as a security blanket for Jared Goff makes him incredibly difficult to replace.

The Lions aren’t trying to accumulate draft picks.

They’re trying to win a Super Bowl.

Trading one of the NFL’s best young tight ends would move them further away from that goal.

The Chiefs Are an Easy Fit

From Kansas City’s perspective, the idea is easy to understand.

Future Hall of Famer Travis Kelce is nearing the end of an extraordinary career, and LaPorta would provide a seamless transition.

Kay explained why the Chiefs would likely be interested.

“The Kansas City Chiefs make sense as a trade partner for the Lions. LaPorta would immediately slot in as Travis Kelce’s much-needed heir, working alongside the aging tight end in 2026 and taking over as one of the primary receiving threats in Kansas City’s dynamic offense once the future Hall of Famer hangs up his cleats.”

There’s no doubt Patrick Mahomes would love having LaPorta in his offense.

The question is whether Detroit would ever consider making him available.

What Would Brad Holmes Actually Do?

That’s where this hypothetical starts to fall apart.

Holmes has repeatedly emphasized building around Detroit’s young core.

The Lions have already rewarded players such as Aidan Hutchinson, Kerby Joseph, and Jack Campbell with major investments. Jahmyr Gibbs, Brian Branch, and LaPorta are widely expected to be next in line.

In fact, Holmes has publicly stated his desire to keep the core of the 2023 draft class together for years to come.

That’s why this proposal feels more like offseason debate material than a realistic possibility.

The compensation is enticing.

The timing is not.

If the Lions are serious about competing for a championship in 2026, trading LaPorta would create a massive hole in one of the NFL’s most dangerous offenses.

And that’s a move Brad Holmes would likely struggle to justify.

Earlier this offseason, general manager Brad Holmes rewarded linebacker Jack Campbell with a four-year contract extension. Holmes has also publicly expressed interest in getting deals done with several other members of Detroit’s talented 2023 draft class, including Jahmyr Gibbs, Sam LaPorta, and Brian Branch.

Of those three players, Gibbs appears to be the most likely candidate to receive an extension in the near future.

But if you’re looking for the star running back to provide updates on negotiations, you’re probably going to be disappointed.

Jahmyr Gibbs Is Letting Others Handle the Contract Talks

Following Thursday’s OTA practice in Allen Park, Gibbs was asked whether he would like to have a new contract in place before the start of the 2026 season.

The Pro Bowl running back made it clear that those discussions are not occupying much of his attention.

“Really, I’m just letting my agent, Brad (Holmes) and all them do that right now,” Gibbs said via Pride of Detroit. “I’m just worried about the team and ball. I’m just trying to hoop right now.”

It’s a response that reflects the same team-first mentality Gibbs has consistently displayed since arriving in Detroit.

While contract negotiations often become distractions around the league, the Lions’ star running back appears focused on one thing.

Football.

Could Gibbs Become the NFL’s Highest-Paid Running Back?

One of the biggest storylines surrounding Gibbs’ next contract is where it could place him among the NFL’s highest-paid running backs.

Many around the league expect both Gibbs and Atlanta Falcons star Bijan Robinson to reset the running back market whenever their extensions are finalized.

That led to another question on Thursday.

Does Gibbs care about becoming the highest-paid running back in football?

Once again, he wasn’t interested in discussing it.

“I don’t really pay attention to all that stuff. Like I said to him, I just want to hoop right now.”

Gibbs reiterated that contract negotiations are being handled by the people responsible for those conversations.

“I’ll let my agent and Brad do all of that, or whoever does it up there, I don’t know. I’ll just let them do that, and I’ll be out here.”

Why a New Deal Feels Inevitable

While Gibbs may not be focused on the financial side of things, the numbers make a compelling case for a new contract.

The 24-year-old is coming off a sensational 2025 season in which he totaled 1,839 yards from scrimmage and scored 18 touchdowns while earning Pro Bowl recognition.

He has developed into one of the NFL’s most dangerous offensive weapons and remains a central piece of Detroit’s long-term plans.

Brad Holmes has repeatedly emphasized the importance of retaining the Lions’ homegrown talent, and Gibbs fits that philosophy perfectly.

The only real question appears to be when a deal gets done.

Lions Star Keeping His Focus on Football

For now, Gibbs isn’t interested in timelines, dollar figures, or market-setting contracts.

He is interested in preparing for the 2026 season.

The Lions are counting on him to once again be one of the league’s most explosive playmakers, and based on his comments, that’s where his attention remains.

The negotiations will happen when they happen.

Gibbs just wants to play football.

According to Tigers reporter Jason Beck, manager A.J. Hinch announced Friday that Skubal will make a rehab start on Sunday with the High-A West Michigan Whitecaps. The decision to send the reigning two-time American League Cy Young Award winner to West Michigan was influenced in part by the weather forecast, which is expected to be more favorable in Grand Rapids than in Iowa, where Triple-A Toledo is playing this weekend.

The rehab outing marks an important milestone for Skubal as he works his way back toward rejoining Detroit’s rotation. With the Tigers struggling through a disappointing 2026 season and sitting near the bottom of the American League standings, getting their ace back on the mound could provide a much-needed boost.

The move comes just days after veteran Justin Verlander began his own rehab assignment with Triple-A Toledo, making his first game appearance since March 30.

While the Tigers have not yet announced how many rehab starts Skubal will need before returning to the major league roster, Sunday’s appearance with West Michigan will offer the organization a chance to evaluate his progress in live-game action.

For a Tigers team desperate for positive news, all eyes will be on Grand Rapids this weekend as Skubal takes another step toward his return to Detroit.

Months after a knee injury ended Joseph’s 2025 season, the Lions still do not know exactly how the All-Pro safety’s recovery will translate once football activities resume.

Speaking before OTA practice in Allen Park, Campbell acknowledged that the organization remains in wait-and-see mode.

Lions Still Facing Uncertainty With Kerby Joseph

Joseph has been one of Detroit’s most important defensive players over the past several seasons, making his recovery one of the biggest storylines of the offseason.

Unfortunately, Campbell admitted the Lions still don’t have many concrete answers.

“I don’t know. I honestly do not know,” Campbell said as quoted by Pride of Detroit. “I know this: we’ve done everything we can do, and he’s done everything he can do to this point.”

The uncertainty stems from the fact that Joseph has not yet returned to football-related activities. While the Lions have closely monitored his rehabilitation process, they simply won’t know how the knee responds until he begins pushing it on the field.

Why Detroit Is Taking a Patient Approach

According to Campbell, the Lions have intentionally avoided rushing Joseph back into action.

The organization believes there is little benefit to testing the knee during June practices when the goal is having him available later in the year.

“We are trying to be as smart as we can and not push this until we absolutely have to, because once we’ve done that, then we’ll know one way or another,” Campbell said.

For now, the focus remains on treatment, strengthening, and exploring every possible avenue to aid the recovery process.

“And it’s not worth it right now. We’re just slowly building, continuing to strengthen there. He’s getting treatment; he’s done some of these different things in different places to try and help.”

Campbell made it clear that neither the team nor Joseph have left any stone unturned.

“So I feel good about that. I feel good about that we’ve done everything we can and so has he.”

As for when answers may finally come?

Campbell indicated that could still be weeks away.

“So we won’t know. Honestly, we probably won’t know until we get into the thick of training camp.”

Lions Believe They Have Reinforcements Ready

The uncertainty surrounding Joseph is one reason Brad Holmes aggressively addressed the safety position this offseason.

Detroit added Christian Izien and Chuck Clark while also bringing back veteran Avonte Maddox. Those additions provide valuable insurance while Joseph and Brian Branch continue their recoveries.

One player who has already caught Campbell’s attention is Izien.

“I like Izien a lot. We played against him. He’s a pretty headsy player. He’s pretty violent. See ball, hit ball.”

Campbell believes there is still room for growth in Izien’s game, particularly on the back end of the defense.

“He hasn’t done a ton on the backend with depth, so those are things we’re working through. But I feel like those are things he can do.”

Most importantly, Campbell sees a player who belongs.

“But there again, we won’t know until we get into it in real time. But I know he’s got some football player to him.”

A Safety Room Built on Competition

While Joseph’s status remains uncertain, Campbell expressed confidence in the overall depth of the position group.

“I really like that group. I really like that group.”

The Lions coach then rattled off several players who will be competing for roles when training camp begins.

“You talk about going into training camp, Chuck Clark, Maddox, Izzy, there’s a ton of guys back there that’ll be competing. We’ve got (Thomas) Harper back, Dan Jackson is coming off injury, Strick-nine (Loren Strickland) is there.”

Campbell believes the blend of youth and experience has created one of the more competitive position groups on the roster.

“So it’s a pretty competitive group, with some young players and then with some heady veteran guys.”

Why This Matters

The Lions would obviously prefer to have Kerby Joseph healthy and patrolling the secondary alongside Brian Branch when the season begins.

However, Thursday’s update reinforced the reality that Detroit still does not know what Joseph’s availability will look like moving forward.

The encouraging news is that both the organization and Joseph continue to attack the rehabilitation process from every angle.

The difficult news is that meaningful answers may not arrive until training camp.

For now, patience remains the Lions’ only option.