In a bombshell revelation that has rocked the NFL landscape, Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell has reportedly expressed a strong interest in returning to New Orleans to take over as the head coach of the Saints — and he’s eyeing a two-year deal to make it happen.
According to sources close to the situation, Campbell’s comments came during a recent private function, where he openly stated his desire to “go back home and lead the Saints to greatness.” The remark has since gone viral, igniting conversations across league circles and social media about the future of both franchises.
HBAgency
HBAgency
Dan Campbell, a former tight end who played for the New Orleans Saints from 2006 to 2009 and served as an assistant coach under Sean Payton from 2016 to 2020, has long been linked to the city and its passionate football culture. His ties to the Saints organization run deep, and many fans still view him as a symbolic figure of toughness and grit — qualities that endeared him to the Who Dat Nation.
Currently, Campbell is under contract with the Detroit Lions, where he has led a major turnaround and helped restore pride to a long-struggling franchise. After a playoff run that saw the Lions come within reach of the NFC Championship Game, his leadership has been widely praised throughout the league. However, with reports now suggesting Campbell is intrigued by the idea of returning to the Big Easy, questions are swirling about what this could mean for the Lions moving forward.
“I love Detroit, I really do,” Campbell reportedly said. “But New Orleans — that’s home. That’s where my heart is. If the opportunity comes, I’d be ready to lead that team and give the city everything I’ve got.”
As of now, the New Orleans Saints have not officially responded to Campbell’s comments, nor have they made any indications of parting ways with current head coach Dennis Allen. However, given the Saints’ underwhelming recent performance and growing fan unrest, the idea of bringing in a fiery and beloved leader like Campbell could be seen as a move to reinvigorate the franchise.
NFL insiders are already speculating on the logistics of such a transition. Would the Lions release Campbell from his contract? Would the Saints be willing to pay a buyout or offer compensation?
While the situation remains fluid, one thing is clear: Dan Campbell’s bold declaration has injected new drama into the NFL offseason and could mark the beginning of a seismic shift for two storied franchises.