The Detroit Lions do not yet know when linebacker Jack Campbell will return to the field, but they plan to bring him back into linebacker meetings soon. Linebackers coach Shaun Dion Hamilton said the team is working out how Campbell can participate, either in person or through Zoom. In the meantime, Hamilton has been keeping in touch with voice messages and updating Campbell on the defense, game plans, and activity around the team.
The Lions gave Campbell a defensive play sheet last week so he could follow along while watching the game. Hamilton said the next step is to have Campbell take part in meetings and contribute to the team’s preparation.
Campbell suffered a serious injury during Detroit’s Week 8 win over the Minnesota Vikings. The Lions were without him in Week 9 but defeated the Miami Dolphins 19-9, keeping them out of the end zone. Several players said they dedicated the victory to Campbell.
In Campbell’s absence, Derrick Barnes took over the defensive play-calling duties. Malcolm Rodriguez is now starting alongside Barnes, while Trevor Nowaske has been given a larger role. Detroit also promoted Joe Bachie from the practice squad and signed K.J. Britt from the New England Patriots’ practice squad as the team adjusted its linebacker group.
The Lions entered Week 10 at 6-2 and faced an important matchup against the Patriots. The NFC North was tightly contested: Minnesota was also 6-2 and scheduled to play Green Bay, which stood at 6-3, while Chicago was 7-2 and on its bye week. A Detroit win could keep the team in contention for the conference’s top seed, while a loss could leave it closer to the bottom of the division.
With Campbell expected to rejoin the meetings in the coming weeks, his continued involvement could help the Lions as they prepare for the rest of the season.
