Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell is still in Detroit, still hospitalized, and still on his mind is football.
That was the message coming out of the week, as head coach Dan Campbell said the former first-round pick told him he was determined to get back on the field. The update came after Jack Campbell was carted off in the second half against the Minnesota Vikings following a neck injury.
CBS sideline reporter Melanie Collins delivered the latest pregame update, saying, "Lions linebacker Jack Campbell remains hospitalized in Detroit, where we're told that he continues to improve following the neck injury he suffered last Sunday against the Vikings. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard and the linebackers arrived at Hard Rock Stadium today wearing No. 46 jerseys in honor of him.
That is the mentality going forward. Prepare and play like No.
"Dan Campbell told us he had the opportunity to see Jack in the hospital this week. He said he is doing well.
He's improving. He doesn't want anyone's tears or sympathy and he is determined to get back on this football field, telling Dan Campbell, 'Just make sure the house is taken care of until I can get back.'
That is what the players and coaches are hanging on to this week."
The Lions were shaken at first and spent the early part of the week focused on Campbell’s health. As the days went on and the updates stayed positive, the attention shifted back to football.
Jack Campbell has made it clear he does not want his teammates dwelling on him or the injury. He wants them locked in on winning.
His No. 46 jersey was also hanging in the Lions’ locker room in Miami this week, a visible reminder of the player they’re trying to keep in mind.
“I think every day we’ve gotten better," said Campbell earlier this week. "We’re getting a better handle on this.
Jack continues to improve, which is all great news. And there again, this is about, man, how would he prepare?
How would he play? Those are the standards for us going into this game.
We owe it to him.”
With Campbell out, Derrick Barnes, Trevor Nowaske and Malcolm Rodriguez are the players now expected to help fill the gap at linebacker.
The Lions also added linebacker Joe Bachie to the active roster and brought in K.J. Britt.
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