Introduction Dan Campbell has quickly become a fan favorite as the head coach of the Detroit Lions. While much is realized about his instructing career, there are a couple of untold stories from his playing days’ worth highlighting. Here is a glance at probably the most fascinating ones.

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The Multi-Sport Star

Before focusing on football, Campbell was a standout athlete in high school in Glen Rose, Texas. He was an All-State tight end in football, however he additionally succeeded at basketball, baseball and track and field. Campbell has said that playing multiple sports helped him become a better football player.

Overcoming Major Injuries

Campbell proceeded to turn into a star tight end at Texas A&M, yet his school career was almost wrecked by injuries. He tore his upper leg tendon as a sophomore however had the option to return and have a strong junior season. However, he tore his ACL again prior to his senior year. Campbell gutted it out and played the entire season with a torn ACL, refusing to have surgery until after the year. That kind of toughness epitomized his playing career.

The Career-Changing Block

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After going undrafted out of college, Campbell signed with the New York Giants in 1999. He was a longshot to make the roster but delivered a pivotal block in a preseason game that caught the coaches’ eyes. Campbell absolutely flattened a defender on a kick-off return, allowing the returner to score. The Giants kept Campbell on the program, and he proceeded to play 11 NFL seasons.

Father Knows Best

Coming from a football family, Campbell received great advice from his dad throughout his playing career. He has recalled his dad telling him as a high school tight end that his primary job was to “go piss people off.” That mentality of embracing the physicality of the game stuck with Campbell. He relished blocking and developed into one of the toughest, meanest tight ends around during his tenure with the Giants and Dallas Cowboys.

Conclusion

Campbell’s days as an NFL player laid the foundation for who he is today as a coach. The toughness, determination and physical mentality he demonstrated throughout his career now define the culture he is trying to build in Detroit. After hearing some of these untold stories from his playing days, Lions fans have even more reason to believe Campbell is the right person to lead their franchise’s turnaround.