DETROIT, MI — In a shocking and emotional development, Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell has officially announced his departure from the franchise after accepting a historic offer from the NFL. Campbell has been named the head coach of the league’s new expansion team, the Austin Outlaws, set to debut in the 2026 NFL season.
The news was confirmed by both the Lions organization and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in a joint press release issued early Saturday morning. Campbell, who is widely credited with leading the Lions through a massive cultural turnaround and return to playoff relevance, leaves behind a proud legacy in Detroit.
A Grit-Fueled Legacy in Detroit
Dan Campbell took over the reins of a struggling Lions team in 2021 and transformed it into one of the NFL’s toughest, most disciplined, and most passionate squads. Known for his fiery personality, emotional press conferences, and unwavering loyalty to his players, Campbell quickly became a fan favorite in Detroit and a symbol of the city’s gritty identity.
After years of rebuilds and disappointments, Campbell led the Lions to their first NFC Championship Game appearance in over 30 years during the 2023 season. Although the team fell short of the Super Bowl, the run reinvigorated the fan base and placed the Lions firmly back on the NFL map.
In his farewell statement, Campbell said:
“Detroit gave me everything. This city, this team, and these fans have meant the world to me. But I’ve been offered a once-in-a-lifetime chance to build something brand new from scratch. That’s a challenge I’m ready to embrace.”
Welcome to Austin: The NFL’s Bold New Venture
The Austin Outlaws, officially announced as the NFL’s 33rd franchise, will call Texas’ capital city home starting in 2026. The new team represents a bold expansion into a booming market with deep football roots and a rapidly growing population. The team will play in a state-of-the-art, 70,000-seat stadium currently under construction just outside downtown Austin.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell praised the move and Campbell’s new role:
“Dan Campbell is the perfect choice to lead this new era in Austin. He brings leadership, intensity, and a blueprint for success that fans will immediately connect with. The Outlaws are in great hands.”
Campbell will begin working with the new front office immediately, helping shape the roster, hire coordinators, and contribute to the team’s identity and culture ahead of the 2026 expansion draft.
A New Void in Detroit
Campbell’s departure comes at a time when the Lions were considered serious Super Bowl contenders. With a strong core of talent — including quarterback Jared Goff, defensive standout Aidan Hutchinson, and a well-balanced offense and defense — the team was positioned for continued success.
Lions owner Sheila Ford Hamp released an emotional statement thanking Campbell for his impact:
“Dan changed everything for us — the locker room, the culture, and the expectations. He brought this team and this city back to life. While we are heartbroken to see him go, we wish him nothing but success in this next chapter.”
As the team prepares for the upcoming season, Detroit will begin an immediate search for its next head coach. Early speculation suggests defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson could be considered, along with external candidates such as former Saints coach Sean Payton or 49ers assistant DeMeco Ryans.
Fans React With Heavy Hearts
Fans across Detroit and beyond responded with mixed emotions — heartbreak over losing their beloved coach and admiration for his journey.
“He made us believe again. That’s all we ever wanted,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “Austin’s lucky to have him, but man, this one hurts.”
Another posted, “Dan Campbell didn’t just coach the Lions. He was the Lions. Good luck, Coach. Thanks for everything.”
Looking Ahead
As Dan Campbell begins building a new legacy with the Austin Outlaws, the Lions face a new test: continuing the momentum he sparked, but without the man who led the charge.
For Campbell, the next challenge will be different — crafting the heart and soul of a brand-new franchise in a city hungry for NFL football. But if his tenure in Detroit is any indicator, Austin can expect a team built on grit, passion, and relentless effort.
