ALLEN PARk, Mich. – Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell said he was confident in the team’s preparation ahead of their NFC North showdown against the Minnesota Vikings.
The Lions will host the Vikings on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, at Ford Field.
“We’ve had two good days of work,” said Campbell. “Guys are in a good place. We got to finish strong today, but like where we’re at.”
Campbell also discussed the challenge of facing familiar NFC North opponents repeatedly.
“It’s a constant battle. You have to stay true to what you are, but keep it fresh, throw curveballs to keep them on their heels.”
Aidan Hutchinson
Campbell addressed the recent contract extension for defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, explaining the timing and process behind the deal for the Michigan Wolverines legend.
“We wanted to get this thing done for a bit now,” Campbell said. “This didn’t just happen overnight. We had all the conviction in the world that Hutch is here to stay. He’s everything we’re about. He’s a productive player in all areas. He’s smart, instinctive, and plays all out from snap to whistle. He’s just us, man.”
Campbell called the extension “a no-brainer” and said both sides worked to reach an agreement.
“We would have liked to have this done a little earlier, but hey, we got it done and we’re excited,” Campbell said.
Campbell reflected on the team’s strategy of retaining key players.
“There’s a reason why we drafted them. They’re productive, good players, and they fit us. They’re smart, resilient, and have this ability. That’s the foundation of our team.”
Potential trade
On the topic of potential roster moves, Campbell described how Lions General Manager Brad Holmes brings players to his attention.
“If there’s somebody he feels good about and that I would, then he’ll bring it,” Campbell said. “Otherwise, he doesn’t bog me down with any of that.”
Campbell praised the extensive scouting work done by Holmes, Lions Assistant General Manager Ray Agnew, and their staff.
When asked if he expects to be active in upcoming trades or acquisitions, Campbell said, “I don’t, but that doesn’t mean we won’t. He’s brought up a couple of things already. But I’m so focused on the here and now and the roster we have in place.”
Campbell also confirmed that the team stays in open communication about roster needs.
“If I feel like there’s something eating away at me or a bit of a concern, sure, I’ll bring that to his attention,” Campbell said.
Injuries
Regarding injuries, Campbell said safety Kerby Joseph won’t play this week as he continues to recover.
“The negative is I don’t think he’s going to play. The positive is that he’s getting better. It’s just going to take a minute,” Campbell said.
Campbell provided updates on players Terrion Arnold and Taylor Decker, saying Decker was unlikely to practice on Halloween but is expected to play.
Arnold “is trending the right way” and has looked good in practice, according to Campbell.
On Josh Paschal’s status, Campbell said Paschal is recovering from a back injury and is improving.
“We’re hopeful for the end of November or early December for him to return to practice,” Campbell said.
Halloween
In a lighter moment, Campbell shared a Halloween memory from his playing days.
“I was Marilyn Monroe one year. Holly’s the creative one; she always had good ideas,” Campbell said.
When asked what candy the Campbell family hands out on Halloween, he said, “Reese’s, peanut M&M’s — that’s kind of what we give.”
Copyright 2025 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit – All rights reserved.