Jack Campbell Hospitalized After Neck Injury in Lions' Win Over Vikings

Lions LB Jack Campbell speaks out after being carted off with neck injury

In a heartfelt statement released by the Lions, Jack Campbell struck an optimistic tone about his recovery, saying he is taking things one day at a time after being carted off the field with a scary neck injury on Sunday.

Lions LB Jack Campbell announces movement in lower body after scary neck injury...

Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell said Wednesday he has full movement in his lower body and is making progress in his upper body after suffering a neck injury during last weekend's NFL game.

Campbell remained lying face down on the floor after making a tackle in the Lions' clash with Minnesota, was carted off the field, and has remained hospitalized since.

After the team said signs were positive for Campbell's recovery, the 26-year-old player expressed optimism about his progress in a statement issued via the Lions' social media.

“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,” said Campbell.

“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.”

Speaking to media later Wednesday, Lions head coach Dan Campbell said receiving the update directly from his player “means a lot.”

“That's powerful in itself. You know, more than hearing it from me or anybody else. Those are his and his family's words, so that's powerful,” he said.

“That always helps to know that he's improving, because at this point that's all you're looking for, is just to know that he is improving,” said Campbell.

“This thing, the status is changing every eight hours, 10 hours, in a good way.”

STATEMENT FROM JACK CAMPBELL 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. 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. 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. Jack Campbell

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) November 4, 2026

The 26-year-old Iowa native entered the league as Detroit's first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, taken 18th overall.

Campbell enjoyed the best season of his career for Detroit in 2025, recording 89 solo tackles, five sacks and 176 combined tackles. He also forced three fumbles and recovered two more.

Last May, the Lions rewarded him with a four-year contract extension worth $81 million.

"That always helps to know that he's improving." https://t.co/Ld4eluOGFL

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) November 4, 2026

The injury happened during Detroit's 19-15 win over previously unbeaten Minnesota on Sunday.

It came after his third tackle of the game, a stop on Minnesota tight end T.J. Hockenson. Campbell stayed face-down on the turf and was carefully placed onto a backboard by medical staff.