Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell says he has “full movement” in his lower body, offering his first public update since suffering a frightening injury Sunday.
The All-Pro defender was left motionless on the Ford Field turf in Detroit after attempting to tackle Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson.
Campbell was quickly secured to a backboard and taken to a hospital, accompanied by his wife and infant son. He has remained there since the incident.
After several cautious updates from the Lions, Campbell addressed his condition directly in a statement released by the team Wednesday afternoon.
“My family and I want to sincerely thank everyone for the overwhelming amount of love, prayers, and support we’ve received over the past few days. It means more to us than words can express.
“I’m incredibly encouraged by the progress I’ve made in such a short period of time. I have full movement in my lower body, and I’m continuing to make progress with movement in my upper body. I know there’s still work ahead, but I remain very optimistic. I’m taking things one day at a time, staying positive, and focusing on getting better.
Detroit Lions star Jack Campbell says he has “full movement” in his lower body
The All-Pro linebacker was left motionless on the field after attempting a tackle Sunday
“My faith in God has never been stronger. I know He has a plan for me, and I trust in that plan. I know there may be challenges ahead, but with my faith, my family, and so many people in my corner, I know we’ll get through this.”
Campbell also expressed his gratitude to the Lions’ medical staff and athletic trainers who treated him immediately after the injury.
The married father of one added: “I especially want to thank the athletic trainers and medical personnel who responded and cared for me on the field. I know those were difficult moments, and I’m incredibly grateful for the professionalism, compassion, and care you showed me. The way you handled everything and looked after me when I needed it most is something I’ll never forget. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
“I also can’t say enough about the incredible care I’ve received from the medical team at Henry Ford Hospital and the Detroit Lions medical staff. They’ve been amazing to me and my family throughout this process, and I’m truly grateful for everything they’ve done.
“To my teammates, coaches, and everyone in the Lions organization, I want you to know how much I love and appreciate you. This team is a family to me, and the way everyone has been there for me means everything. I’m proud to be a Detroit Lion and couldn’t ask to be surrounded by a better group of people.
“One thing I’ve learned about Detroit is that this city is built on toughness, resilience, and grit. That’s exactly how I’m going to approach this challenge. Please continue to keep me and my family in your prayers. We feel the love, and I can’t thank everyone enough. God is good. My faith is strong.”
As Campbell was placed on the backboard and removed from the field, players from both the Lions and Vikings took a knee in a visible show of support.
Lions teammate Aidan Hutchinson was especially emotional as Detroit attempted to continue the game following Campbell’s serious neck injury.
As the defense’s captain, Hutchinson was tasked with lifting his teammates before play resumed. He delivered an emotional speech, fighting back tears as he rallied the team.
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Campbell was quickly placed on a backboard and taken to the hospital with his family
Lions coach Dan Campbell provided another encouraging update on Jack Campbell’s condition Tuesday
The Lions initially offered no further details after the incident. On Monday afternoon, however, the team said Campbell was continuing “to rest and recover at a local hospital.”
Lions head coach Dan Campbell said Tuesday morning that the linebacker’s recovery continued to move in a positive direction.
Speaking on Detroit radio station 97/1 The Ticket’s Costa and Jansen with Heather, he said: “It’s not easy because he’s gonna always be on our minds over here.
“The good news is he is improving, but we also—we got a job to do, and this is what we’re tasked with, and there’s a reason why we go through all this stuff.
“It’s to get to where we wanna go collectively as a team, and adversity comes in all shapes and sizes and we gotta overcome everything that comes our way.”
Asked how the rest of the roster was handling the situation, Campbell said: “I think the thought of him—knowing he’s doing better—I’ve kept the captains up to date and they’ve let the other guys know it’s good news.
“So, I think that helps everybody just get a better handle on all this. Once you know that, then you gotta move on for yourself, too, in that moment because if you let things wander and you drift and you worry a little and then you’re trying to play or prepare, that’s where bad things can happen to you because you’re not all in on what you need to be doing.
“So, that’s why it’s important that you get back to your own business. All we can do at this point is just continue to pray for Jack, put our thoughts on him when we have a minute, and his family, and it’s working, like I said, because he is improving.”
Campbell’s wife Megan and their four-month-old son Cooper accompanied him to the hospital
The linebacker (right) was injured while attempting to tackle T.J. Hockenson
Campbell, who starred at Iowa, joined the Lions as the No. 18 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
He earned All-Pro honors last season after becoming the first NFL player in seven years to record at least 150 tackles, five sacks and three forced fumbles.
Detroit signed Campbell to a four-year, $81 million contract extension in May. The deal runs through the 2030 season.
The injury occurred during a significant year for Campbell both professionally and personally. He and his wife, Megan, welcomed their first child, a son named Cooper, in February.
