Medical staff tending to Lions linebacker Jack Campbell.
Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell and medical staff check on the injury of linebacker Jack Campbell (46) in the fourth quarter between Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026.
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Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell has released his first statement after suffering a scary neck injury and being immobilized and stretchered off the field during Sunday’s win over the Minnesota Vikings.
In his first public comments, Campbell confirmed he has “full movement” in his lower body and is “making progress” with his lower body. The team had been vague in its updates on the 26-year-old All-Pro over the last couple of days, though Lions head coach Dan Campbell said Monday things were looking “positive.”
‘Very optimistic’ Campbell focused on healing
“I’m incredibly encouraged by the progress I’ve made in such a short period of time,” Jack Campbell said Wednesday in his statement shared by the team. “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. 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 was injured while making a tackle on Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s game. He immediately went face down on the turf and was motionless for several minutes while being tended to by trainers and medical personnel, whom Campbell thanked in his statement.
“I know those were difficult moments, and I’m incredibly grateful for the professionalism, compassion, and care you showed me,” he said. “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.”
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Moving forward
Whether or not Campbell will be able to play football again is secondary to his overall health and recovery. It’s great to hear he has full movement in his lower extremities and is making progress with his upper body, considering how frightening the injury appeared and the lack of information that was made public in the aftermath of it.
Campbell, who thanked his teammates, coaches and other members of the Lions organization for their support, also expressed his appreciation for the city of Detroit and the Lions’ fanbase.
“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,” he said. “Please continue to keep me and my family in your prayers. We feel the love, and I can’t thank everyone enough.”
Sophie Cunningham
Sophie Cunningham