Recently-Retired O-Lineman Staying with Lions on Dan Campbell's Staff

Dan Skipper will join the coaching staff after announcing his retirement from playing

Feb. 23, 2026 at 7:41pm

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Longtime Detroit Lions offensive lineman Dan Skipper has announced his retirement from playing, but he won't be leaving the team. Skipper has been hired as an offensive assistant on head coach Dan Campbell's coaching staff for the upcoming season.

Why it matters

Skipper's familiarity with the Lions' offensive line and his relationships with the players should provide valuable continuity as the team looks to bounce back from a tough season. His transition to the coaching staff also highlights the Lions' commitment to developing their own talent.

The details

Skipper played most of his NFL career with the Lions, appearing in 69 games with 16 starts over the past several seasons. He was a key part of the Lions' offensive line that helped the team make multiple playoff runs. After announcing his retirement on Instagram, Skipper will now join Dan Campbell's coaching staff as an offensive assistant.

  • Skipper announced his retirement in late January 2026.
  • Skipper will join the Lions' coaching staff for the 2026 NFL season.

The players

Dan Skipper

A recently-retired offensive lineman who spent the majority of his NFL career with the Detroit Lions, playing in 69 games with 16 starts over the past several seasons.

Dan Campbell

The head coach of the Detroit Lions, who has hired Skipper to join his coaching staff as an offensive assistant.

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What they’re saying

“The Lions have officially hired former OT Dan Skipper as an offensive assistant on Dan Campbell's coaching staff.”

— Ari Meirov, Reporter (The33rdTeamFB)

“24 years of putting on pads and a helmet every fall. This year, I'll trade that out to pursue a career on the other side in coaching. The memories and experiences that the NFL has brought me and my family are hard to put into words. Thankful for every person that has been a part of my journey. It's time for me to 'report' as retired (Sorry, I had to do it one last time!).”

— Dan Skipper (Instagram)

What’s next

Skipper will join the Lions' coaching staff and work closely with the offensive line as the team prepares for the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

Skipper's transition from player to coach with the Lions demonstrates the team's commitment to developing talent from within and maintaining continuity on the coaching staff. His familiarity with the players and the system should provide a smooth transition as he looks to contribute to the Lions' success in a new role.