Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell says he has regained some movement in his body after sustaining a serious neck injury during his team’s win over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.
The 26-year-old was treated for nine minutes on the field after making a tackle during Sunday’s game. Players from both teams were visibly distraught as Campbell received medical attention before he was taken for further treatment at a hospital in the Detroit area.
In a statement on Wednesday, Campbell said he is making progress in his recovery. “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, who remains hospitalized, said in the statement. “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.”
On Monday, Lions coach Dan Campbell paid tribute to the former first-round pick’s contributions to the team.
“I don’t even know if I can put it into words. You get voted captain, that says a ton, especially with this group of guys. He earned every bit of that. He’s trustworthy. He’s dependable. He’d give you the shirt off his back,” said Dan Campbell. “He’s just all heart, all effort. And just an unbelievable person. Down to earth. Very genuine. There’s not a man on this team that doesn’t respect Jack Campbell and care about him.”
Campbell was named an All-Pro last season and is in his fourth year in the league. In May, he signed a four-year contract extension with the Lions worth $81m.
