Campbell: Sheila Hamp Is 'Unique', Lions' Success Her Vision

Hamp's unwavering belief is a catalyst for Lions' success.

When the Detroit Lions hired Dan Campbell, many panned his introductory press conference. 

However, his characteristics of leadership and toughness have shined over the past two seasons. He has molded the Lions from a league afterthought to a legitimate Super Bowl contender. 

As a result, he has made the decision by Sheila Hamp to hire him look to be a genius stroke. The partnership between the two parties has been one that is mutually beneficial and has paid big dividends already.  

Detroit's success has been unique in that, by all accounts, all of the decision-makers are on the same page. This has created a sense of compatibility that has allowed the team to flourish. 

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Now, with the team on the precipice of its first Super Bowl appearance ever, Campbell shared his feelings about the team's owner maintaining an unyielding belief in him and his coaching staff. 

“It means a lot, I always wanted to do that. I always wanted to prove right," Campbell said. "That’s not an easy thing to do, to take a chance on somebody that nobody knows about or thinks deserves a shot or whatever it is. And so to trust your instincts and trust people around you and pull the trigger, it means a lot. It sure does. But, once you know here, once you know her, it doesn’t surprise me one bit. She’s one of one, she’s unique."  

The success that the team hashed this season is a direct by-product of Hamp sharing the same vision as both Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes. 

There is a true collaboration between all three, as they have combined to assemble a roster full of cultural fits and talented players. 

Additionally, Hamp has not put any restrictions or requirements on Campbell. The coach has gained national popularity for his various viral moments, but has also proven to be among the game's best motivators. 

The third-year coach shared his appreciation for Hamp's approach, and credited her for the foundation of the team's quick rebuild. 

"And, I’ll say this, everything that we are and what we’re about has started with her. It’s really her, it’s her vision," Campbell explained. "Like I’m fortunate that she allows me to be myself. I don’t feel like I have to be somebody I’m not. You can’t always do that. And so with that, I can coach. I can do what I need to do, and I appreciate that. She took a chance on me, and yeah, it feels good to prove her right. But, we’re not done yet, either.”