The NFL pre-season is in full swing. That means NFL coaches are having to cut players that they’re testing out during pre-season games. It’s like auditioning for a Broadway show. Some make the cut, and some don’t. For Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell, cutting players in the pre-season is not fun.

Dan Campbell on Cutting Players in the Pre-Season

During a press conference on Monday (Aug. 28), Campbell talked about make those tough decision and cutting players. He said that it’s one of the hardest things he has to do.

“There’s nothing worse than watching guys give everything they’ve got, bust their rear, the blood, the sweat, all of it, the angst, the good, the bad, and that’s hard,” Campbell said. “It’s hard to look them in the eye and tell them, ‘Hey, this is as far as it goes, for now.'”

It’s not all bad, though. Sometimes, the guys just aren’t ready. It might not work out for them this year, but they could be back next year. Or, they could even find a new home in the NFL.

“There’ll be a number of guys too that, ‘Yeah, you didn’t make it on this maybe the 53, but we want you back here,'” Campbell said. “And if it doesn’t work out somewhere else, or someone’s not willing to claim you, there’s a reason we want you back, because we feel like you can help us. Our practice-squad players play.”

He added, ” I mean they play during the year, whether it’s injury or special teams. I mean there’s a good chance you’re going to end up playing at some point this year if you’re with us.”

The big kickoff game for the NFL season is Sept. 7 with the Kansas City Chiefs against the Detroit Lions at the Chiefs. It’s going to be a tough game for the Lions, but there’s a so much buzz and positive hype around the team, so America will be watching. Also, one Detroit Lions players could set records this season. Find out more about him here.