MCSN Lions Camp Notebook: Dan Campbell Press Conference — Day 2 of Training Camp
ALLEN PARK, Mich. — Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell met with reporters Thursday morning before Day 2 of training camp and addressed several of the team’s biggest storylines, including Jahmyr Gibbs’ contract situation, injuries, and the progress of several key players.
Campbell: “I’m not worried” about Jahmyr Gibbs
Campbell opened his media session by addressing the ongoing contract negotiations with star running back Jahmyr Gibbs.
The Lions head coach said he isn’t concerned about the situation and believes a deal will eventually get done, though he acknowledged he doesn’t know when that will happen.
“I’ve got a team to coach,” Campbell said, noting his focus remains on the players currently practicing.
He also pointed out that Gibbs’ absence creates valuable opportunities for the other running backs to receive additional practice reps.
Later in the press conference, Campbell was asked about Gibbs again and admitted he thought negotiations would have already been completed by now, but reiterated that he is not worried about the situation.
Giovanni Manu placed on NFI
Campbell also provided an update on offensive tackle Giovanni Manu, who was placed on the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list.
According to Campbell, Manu suffered an injury over the summer that was not disclosed to the team. After coming off the practice field feeling uncomfortable, team doctors evaluated him and determined the injury was significant enough to place him on NFI.
Campbell indicated Manu could be sidelined for an extended period of time.
Campbell praises Tyleik Williams
One of the more positive moments of the press conference came when Campbell discussed rookie defensive tackle Tyleik Williams.
Campbell was asked about Williams’ social media post showing the weight he has lost since arriving in Detroit.
The Lions coach praised the rookie for following through on what he promised.
According to Campbell, Williams reported during the spring overweight, accepted the challenge from the coaching staff, put in the work, and successfully lost the weight.
Campbell said he’s proud of Williams, calling him a man of his word.
Excitement surrounding Sam LaPorta
Campbell also spoke about tight end Sam LaPorta, saying it’s been encouraging to see him back on the practice field.
The Lions coach emphasized how important LaPorta is to Detroit’s offense and said he’s looking forward to seeing him continue to ramp up throughout training camp.
As the Lions prepare for another day of training camp, several key storylines remain worth monitoring. Jahmyr Gibbs’ contract negotiations continue to be a focal point, though Dan Campbell made it clear he isn’t concerned and believes an agreement will eventually get done. Meanwhile, Detroit will be keeping a close eye on Giovanni Manu’s recovery after his move to the NFI list, while Tyleik Williams’ commitment to improving his conditioning has already earned praise from the coaching staff. Add in the return of Sam LaPorta and the continued development of the offense, and the Lions enter Day 2 of camp with plenty of optimism—and several important questions that could shape the weeks ahead.
MCSN will continue providing daily coverage from Detroit Lions training camp with the latest news, injury updates, roster battles, and coach and player reactions.