Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell has praised high school football as a uniquely authentic part of the sport, contrasting it with what he described as upheaval in college football around NIL payments and player movement. His message matters because it encourages young players to value the shared experience, commitment and local bonds of playing alongside schoolmates.

Speaking as the high school season begins, Campbell urged players to make the most of the opportunity, particularly seniors who may be playing their final competitive games. He recalled the atmosphere of Thursday, Friday and Saturday-night football, including freshly cut grass, hard work and sacrifice, and asked younger players to give their all for senior teammates before taking on that role themselves.