When Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell was asked about spring standouts, fans aren't going to be surprised by the response. Campbell was quick to point out, "Gibbs and Jamo are two guys that really stood out." Still, the head coach wasn't done giving credit, calling out two defenders who had caught his eye early on. DJ Reed and Avonte Maddox might not be splashy additions; however, both are important depth pieces that are already impressing the Detroit coaching staff.
Maddox spent the first seven years of his career with the Eagles, joining the franchise a year after Nick Foles' impressive Super Bowl run. Still, the corner would win a ring in a depth role with the franchise in the 2024 season. Having this level of experience to aid the Detroit secondary is a great decision from the Lions' front office.
Dan Campbell Praises Lions Underrated Offseason Signings
DJ Reed has bounced around the league before finding a home with the New York Jets, playing opposite Sauce Gardner. Reed took advantage of this, signing a three-year $48 million deal in the 2025 offseason with Detroit. Both Maddux and Reed are expected to fix what had been Detroit's biggest defensive concern. While the pass rush was great, there was a level of concern anytime the unit didn't immediately get home.
Both corners have experience playing in high-leverage games and should help push the Lions back into the conversation among league favorites. Campbell, noting the additions, is telling as well of what the organization thinks of both corners and the expected impact.
However, there is also no denying that there is a reason by Gibbs and Williams were the first names out of Campbell's mouth. The speed and big-play ability of both offensive talents demand respect and excitement from the coaching staff and Lions fans. It is a team that has now built a defense capable of supporting the star-studded offense. The biggest question mark for the team remains the ability to stay healthy and finally live up to mounting expectations in a loaded NFC.