Injured Lions linebacker Jack Campbell has ‘full movement’ in lower body after neck injury

By Liam Griffin - The Washington Times - Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell has “full movement” in his lower body, he wrote in a statement on Wednesday. The 26-year-old was carted off the field during Sunday’s win over the Minnesota Vikings with a neck injury.

Medical staff took Campbell off the field on a backboard and took him to a Detroit hospital. The Lions provided limited information in the intervening days, only asking for prayers and noting that “preliminary indications” were positive.

Before Wednesday, team officials had not confirmed whether Campbell had feeling in his extremities. The Iowa product did not provide a thumbs-up to fans as he left the field on Sunday in a scene that left teammates choking back tears.

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“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,” Campbell said. “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 coach Dan Campbell asked for continued prayers after the game and during his Monday press conference. Fans, players and coaches from around the league had offered their thoughts for the injured linebacker.

“Your prayers are working,” the coach, who has no relation to the player, said.

“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,” Jack Campbell said in his statement Wednesday. “It means more to us than words can express.”

Neither Jack Campbell nor the Lions confirmed what the next steps would be for the linebacker’s recovery. He remained hospitalized on Wednesday, thanking medical personnel for their continued assistance.

“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,” Jack Campbell said in the statement. “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.”