Dan Campbell has reportedly made his decision on who will be calling plays for the Detroit Lions in 2026.
On Monday, the Lions hired former Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, marking the fourth different offensive coordinator under Campbell during his tenure as head coach. The move ends a nearly two-week search to replace John Morton, who lasted just one season in the role.
The big question immediately followed: would Campbell continue calling plays himself, or would the responsibility shift back to his new coordinator?
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the answer is now clear.
Fowler reported that Petzing is expected to take over full offensive play-calling duties in Detroit. During the interview process, the understanding around the league was that Campbell planned to hand the reins back to his new offensive coordinator after taking over play-calling late last season.
Campbell stepped in midway through the 2025 campaign, removing Morton from play-calling responsibilities just eight games into the year and personally running the offense over the final nine contests. The move was seen as a short-term solution, not a permanent shift in philosophy.
With Petzing now in place, the Lions are returning to a more traditional structure, a trusted offensive coordinator designing and calling the game, while Campbell oversees the big picture and culture of the team.
For Detroit, this signals confidence in Petzing’s offensive vision and a belief that his system can unlock the next level of consistency and creativity for a roster built to contend.
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