When the offseason schedules for each NFL team first came out earlier this offseason, the Detroit Lions had everything an offseason slate typically has at that point in time (Phase 1, 2 and 3 of OTAs, mandatory minicamp).
Coming off the draft, with the addition of rookie minicamps for draft picks, undrafted rookies and other invitees, the league updated things on Wednesday with an announcement of the offseason schedules for all 32 teams.
The Lions will have their rookie minicamp on May 9-11, with the last two phases of OTAs coming on May 28-30 and June 3-5.
Notably absent from the Lions' offseason schedule is mandatory minicamp, which was initially slated for June 10-12.
Jeremy Reisman of Pride of Detroit has independently confirmed the Lions' cancellation of mandatory minicamp. Reisman was not given the specific reason for the move, but it seems obvious.
Why did the Lions cancel mandatory minicamp?
The equation has notably changed for the Lions since the original announcement of their 2025 offseason schedule.
Last week it was announced they will play in the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio on July 31, against the Los Angeles Chargers. That means they'll have four preseason games, and they'll be reporting to training camp about week earlier than they would have normally (on or about July 17, pending the official announcement that will come later).
As noted by Reisman, the Lions were already only using two of three available weeks for OTAs before mandatory minicamp was cancelled. But generally speaking under head coach Dan Campbell, the Lions have had great attendance at the voluntary portions of offseason work,
For all the intensity Campbell brings to the equation and demands, he is also keenly aware of managing the workload players have. Players appreciate that awareness in training camp and during the season, which is rooted in him being a former player.
The most recent NFLPA survey highlighted Campbell's approach in that area.
"100% of Lions players believe their head coach Dan Campbell is efficient with their time. He is one of six coaches across the league to receive a perfect score from their players."
"The players feel that Campbell is highly receptive to locker room feedback on the team’s needs, ranking him 6 of 32 head coaches in the league."
The league's announcement of offseason schedules was sure to note that "dates are subject to change at the discretion of individual clubs". So it's possible the Lions decide to put mandatory minicamp back on the slate, but don't bet on that decision changing.
