Dan Campbell Announces Will Levis Signing, Shaking Up Lions’ QB Room and Rooster Ranking in NFL
Detroit, MI — In a bold move that could have significant implications for the Lions’ quarterback situation — and potentially alter their trajectory in the NFC — head coach Dan Campbell announced the team’s surprising signing of quarterback Will Levis during a press conference at the team’s Allen Park facility early Thursday morning.
The acquisition of Levis, the former Kentucky star and Tennessee Titans second-round pick, comes amid swirling offseason speculation about Detroit’s long-term plans under center. The Lions have enjoyed a recent renaissance under Campbell’s fiery leadership and Jared Goff’s steady hand, but this unexpected move signals that Detroit might be preparing for both the present and the future in a more aggressive way.
“Will’s a competitor,” Campbell said during the announcement. “We’ve watched his growth closely. He’s got the tools, he’s got the grit — the kind of edge we look for here in Detroit. This isn’t just about depth; this is about competition. We’re going to turn the heat up in that quarterback room, and I think everyone in there will be better because of it.”
A New Chapter for Levis
Will Levis’ NFL journey has already been a roller coaster. Drafted 33rd overall by the Titans in 2023, he was touted as a high-upside prospect with a cannon arm and the kind of raw talent that could develop into franchise quarterback potential. After a rocky start behind Ryan Tannehill and amid a struggling Titans offense, Levis showed flashes of brilliance but struggled with consistency, decision-making, and injuries.
With the Titans committing to a rebuild and putting faith in other options, Levis became the odd man out — until Detroit swooped in.
The terms of the contract were not disclosed at the time of the announcement, but sources close to the organization say the deal is team-friendly and incentive-based, giving Levis a clear opportunity to prove himself without disrupting the Lions’ existing financial structure.
Impact on Detroit’s Quarterback Room
Jared Goff has been a stable and often underrated presence for the Lions. Since arriving in the blockbuster trade that sent Matthew Stafford to the Rams, Goff has helped lead Detroit back to playoff relevance, even engineering a deep postseason run last season. He’s seen as a leader in the locker room and has earned Campbell’s trust.
But bringing in Levis sends a message: the Lions are preparing for every possibility.
“This is not a knock on Jared,” Campbell emphasized. “Goff is our guy. But we’re building a roster that can withstand anything. Depth is power in this league. And iron sharpens iron.”
The signing also puts pressure on backup QB Hendon Hooker, who was drafted in 2023 but has yet to see meaningful NFL action due to injury and developmental timelines. With Levis now in the mix, Detroit’s quarterback hierarchy becomes a more fluid — and more interesting — storyline heading into camp.
Rooster Ranking Shake-Up
Beyond the quarterback dynamics, the Levis signing has prompted analysts across the league to revisit Detroit’s overall “rooster” (roster) ranking — a humorous Campbell-ism that fans and players alike have embraced. And make no mistake: Detroit’s rooster is looking feisty.
Before the Levis signing, the Lions were already ranked in the top tier of NFC contenders. With a formidable offensive line, a diverse backfield headlined by Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, and playmakers like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta, Detroit’s offense is built to hum. Defensively, the addition of talent like Brian Branch, Aidan Hutchinson’s emergence, and savvy free agent moves have fortified what was once a weakness.
Now, with an intriguing quarterback depth chart that includes a seasoned veteran, a dynamic developmental piece, and a high-ceiling project in Levis, the Lions are drawing praise for having one of the most complete rosters in the NFL.
“It’s not just about who’s starting on Day 1,” said ESPN analyst Mina Kimes. “It’s about who’s ready when things get chaotic in November and December. The Lions are thinking like a team with real championship aspirations.”
NFL.com’s updated power rankings saw Detroit jump from No. 6 to No. 4 in the league, and second overall in the NFC behind the 49ers — reflecting not just the Levis addition, but the franchise’s growing credibility under Campbell and GM Brad Holmes.
Campbell’s Vision and Culture
What’s most notable about this move isn’t just the player involved, but the broader philosophy it represents. Dan Campbell has spent three years cultivating a culture of competition, resilience, and gritty self-belief in Detroit. This isn’t a franchise that plays it safe anymore.
“When you walk in our building, you better be ready to work your tail off,” Campbell said. “We’re building something here. And we don’t back down from tough decisions. We lean into them.”
Bringing in Levis — a player with high potential but questions still to answer — fits that blueprint. It’s a calculated gamble. It’s a swing at upside. And for a franchise that once wallowed in mediocrity, swings like this are a sign of confidence.
What’s Next?
Training camp will be must-watch television in Detroit. All eyes will be on the quarterback reps, the locker room dynamics, and whether Levis can carve out a meaningful role in his new football home. Early signs suggest the Lions aren’t just preparing for this season — they’re laying a foundation for sustained success.
For now, Will Levis is a Lion. And Dan Campbell, never one to play things safe, has made it very clear: Detroit is coming for more than just respect.