In a surprising development, Detroit Lions owner Sheila Ford Hamp received an unexpected message from the NFL concerning Head Coach Dan Campbell.
The league’s communication, while not publicly disclosed in detail, is believed to pertain to the Lions’ recent proposal to postpone the 2025 preseason, a move that has garnered significant attention within NFL circles.
Earlier this year, Ford Hamp and Campbell jointly submitted an unprecedented proposal to the NFL, offering $85.5 million to delay the 2025 preseason.
The rationale behind this bold move centers on player health and safety, aiming to provide athletes with extended recovery time following a grueling 2024 season that saw numerous injuries across the league.
Campbell emphasized the importance of ensuring players are physically prepared for the demands of the NFL, stating, “Our goal is to create an environment where players can perform at their highest level, and that starts with ensuring they are physically ready for the rigors of the NFL.”
The NFL’s response to this proposal has been closely guarded, but sources indicate that the league has expressed concerns about the implications of such a postponement on scheduling, broadcasting contracts, and revenue streams.
The message received by Ford Hamp is believed to outline these concerns and request further discussions on the matter.
This development comes on the heels of a season where the Lions, under Campbell’s leadership, achieved significant milestones, including their first division title since 1993 and a franchise-record 15 wins. Despite these accomplishments, the team faced a disappointing playoff exit, losing 45–31 to the Washington Commanders in the Divisional Round.
Ford Hamp has been a steadfast supporter of Campbell, even during challenging periods. In 2022, amid a 1-5 start, she publicly expressed her confidence in the coaching staff, stating, “We’ve got the right people in place to pull this off.”
Her commitment to building a championship-caliber team has been evident through strategic hires and fostering a culture of unity within the organization.
The proposal to postpone the preseason reflects the Lions’ forward-thinking approach and willingness to challenge traditional NFL norms for the betterment of player welfare. While the NFL’s initial response appears cautious, the dialogue initiated by Ford Hamp and Campbell could pave the way for broader discussions on player health and the structure of the preseason.
As the Lions prepare for the upcoming season, the organization remains focused on building upon their recent successes and addressing areas for improvement. The outcome of their proposal to the NFL will be closely watched, potentially setting a precedent for how the league balances player safety with operational