Lions' Carlton Davis III Explains Why Dan Campbell is His Favorite Coach of All-Time

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Meyer | Last updated Feb 20, 2025 12:20 PM ET

Detroit Lions cornerback Carlton Davis III became a key figure in leading coach Dan Campbell's team to the best record in the NFC in 2024, only to suffer a broken jaw that required surgery, knocking him out for the rest of the season.

Davis III's injury was magnified on Jan. 18 as the Washington Commanders marched to 45 points on former defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn's defense, ending Detroit's dream season in a 45-31 loss.

Despite the Lions' setbacks, Davis III remains confident in Dan Campbell's vision for the team, sharing his thoughts on the mercurial leader in a recent podcast appearance.

Davis III recalled Campbell's reaction to the team's miscues during a Week 2 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on 'The Slightly Decent Podcast.'

"He went in the locker room. Bro, he was crying. He was like, 'Blame your coach,' he was really like, 'Blame your coach. You can blame me. You can blame me,'" Davis III said.

"He took full accountability. I have never in my, what, 20 years of playing football have ever had a coach just say, 'I lost the game for y'all.'

"And there's plenty of other plays guys could've made."

Davis III, a former Super Bowl champion with the Bucs, had 42 solo tackles, 11 pass breakups, two interceptions and a forced fumble last season.

He added that Campbell is often complimentary toward players, both on the field and in the locker room after the game.

"He's a real one. He's my favorite head coach — I ain't gonna lie — that I done played for," Davis said.

"That's why I was out there trying to break my jaw for him."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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