Lions LB Jack Campbell Looks to Lead, Help Team Get Off to Fast Start
Jack Campbell is embarking upon a pivotal stretch of his young career with the Detroit Lions.
Entering his third season, the 2023 first-round pick isn’t just being asked to hold down his role as a physical, versatile linebacker. He’s been handed the responsibilities of the green dot, which entails relaying defensive calls and essentially serving as the on-field extension of defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard.
For Campbell, it’s an honor, but also one he refuses to let change who he is.
“For me, going into my third year, drafted here, same head coach, same defense, everything’s kind of the same,” Campbell told former NFL defensive end Chris Long on a recent episode of the “Green Light Podcast” hosted by Long. “So, it’s kind of nice having some familiarity. And then when he (Dan Campbell) came up and said that (Jack Campbell would handle green dot duties), I was just super excited for the opportunity. But like, I’m not going to put so much pressure on myself to be somebody who I’m not.
“Ever since I got here, I’m going to be the same person that I was when I stepped in the door. So I feel like when he said that to me, I had to remind myself to like I don’t need to be nobody else but myself. That’s what I’ve been trying to do every single day, just be consistent.”
Consistency has been the name of the game for Campbell throughout his football journey.
At Iowa, under longtime head coach Kirk Ferentz, he was taught the important values of steadiness and toughness – two attributes that now define his style of play.
He prides himself on being stout against the run, increasingly dependable in coverage and, most importantly, a reliable teammate.
Those qualities will matter more than ever after Detroit endured a 2024 season marred by injuries on the defensive side of the ball.
From fellow linebacker Alex Anzalone to now-former Lions cornerback Carlton Davis, several key players missed significant periods of time, leaving Campbell to help keep a rotating cast of defenders organized.
He recalled the chaos of that stretch vividly, which, per Campbell, was handled superbly by Lions head man Dan Campbell.
“So, it’d be Tuesday, and we’d get a busload of new guys dropped off,” Campbell said. “And I’ll never forget, we are playing Thanksgiving at home against Green Bay and Dan’s up in the team meeting, saying, ‘This is going to be the most memorable game you’re ever going to play in. Gameplan’s going to be simple. Just go out there and let it rip.’ And (for the) defense, he doesn’t care about anything, just go out there and play hard. For me, thank goodness I didn’t get hurt. But, I was out there looking to my left and my right, and these are guys who just showed up on Tuesday, and I’m like, it’ll be Cover 2, and I’m just telling this guy, ‘Hey, this is your landmark. You’re good. Run and just go get the ball now.’
“And for me, that was another step for me, it just opened my eyes to how much you have to take care of your body. But, at the same time, you just got to play free out there. And that’s where I feel like I’m trying to take the most steps for myself: It’s to continue to just let it rip and take some chances.”
Detroit still was able to pull off 15 wins and an NFC North championship despite the rash of injuries. It’s something Campbell points to as evidence of the team’s resilience and his head coach’s refusal to let excuses creep in.
Now, as one of the Lions’ defensive cornerstones, Campbell is embracing his leadership duties while keeping perspective. He acknowledges mistakes will occur, but stresses that staying steady – never getting too high or too low – is what will allow him and the defense to thrive.
“It’s not going to be perfect,” the third-year linebacker expressed. “There’s going to be days where I fall short and there’s going to be days where it’s really good. But, it’s like how can I just stay steady and consistent.”
That mentality extends beyond the defense.
Campbell has developed a strong relationship with Detroit quarterback Jared Goff, often engaging in post-practice conversations about schemes and tendencies.
Goff, according to Campbell, not only challenges him but also demonstrates a relentless dedication to winning.
“He’ll be able to pull me off to the side after practice and talk me through like how he sees things, which is super beneficial because he doesn’t have to do it,” the Iowa product said of the veteran passer. “But, I feel like he just genuinely loves football. But the end goal, he wants to win the Super Bowl, and that’s the main focus.”
That ultimate goal to win a Super Bowl motivates Campbell as well. The last two seasons have ended in disappointment, with Detroit coming agonizingly close but being unable to seal the deal.
Campbell is committed to ensuring the team’s defense is in position to ultimately get the Lions to the Super Bowl. As he put it, “The last two years, it’s been kind of a tough way to end the season, so we just need to finish.”
Campbell may have more on his plate than ever before. However, his approach remains the same: be himself, be consistent and let everything else fall into place.
Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld’s Life-Changing Decision: Adopting an Orphaned Child from the Texas Hill Country Floods
In an unexpected turn of events that has captured the hearts of millions, NFL star Josh Allen and his fiancée, actress Hailee Steinfeld, have stunned the world with a decision that transcends fame and fortune. Known for his dominance on the field and her powerful presence in Hollywood, the couple has come together to make a decision that has touched the lives of many, showcasing the true meaning of compassion.
In early July, the Texas Hill Country was devastated by a catastrophic flood that claimed numerous lives and left many children orphaned. Among the countless tragedies, one story stood out: a 6-year-old girl who lost both of her parents in the disaster. As the heartbreaking reality of the flood’s aftermath spread, no one could have predicted that two of the biggest names in sports and entertainment would be the ones to offer her a new beginning.
Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld: A Powerful Duo of Compassion
Josh Allen, the quarterback sensation of the Buffalo Bills, and his fiancée Hailee Steinfeld, an acclaimed actress and singer, have both been admired for their work on and off the screen. But this latest act of kindness has brought their legacy to new heights. The couple, moved by the tragedy, decided to fly to Texas to adopt the orphaned girl, offering her the promise of a new life full of love and support.
The decision came after hearing about the young girl’s devastating loss through a local charity. Without any hesitation, Allen and Steinfeld knew that they had the resources and the heart to provide a safe home for her. This wasn’t just about adoption—it was about giving the child the chance to heal, grow, and find a sense of family amidst the chaos.
A Journey of Love and Commitment
The moment Josh and Hailee met the little girl, their hearts melted. Despite the unimaginable loss she had endured, the child displayed remarkable resilience, a quality that deeply resonated with the couple. In a private, tear-filled meeting, Josh and Hailee made it clear that they were ready to provide her with the unconditional love she deserved.
“We knew from the moment we heard her story that we couldn’t sit by,” Josh Allen said, reflecting on the decision. “This little girl deserves a future filled with love, security, and all the opportunities she never thought possible. Hailee and I are honored to be able to give her that.”
Hailee Steinfeld echoed Josh’s sentiments, adding, “This isn’t just about what we can give her—this is about making sure she knows she is cherished, that she belongs, and that she will never have to face the world alone again.”
The couple quickly worked through the necessary legalities and adoption processes, ensuring that the transition was as smooth and comforting as possible for the young girl. Their determination and commitment were evident in every step they took.
A Legacy Built on Kindness
News of Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld’s adoption decision has resonated far beyond the sports and entertainment worlds. Fans, friends, and fellow celebrities have praised the couple for their profound act of kindness. In a world where so many are quick to judge athletes and entertainers for their fame and wealth, Josh and Hailee have proven that true greatness lies in the ability to make a difference in the lives of others.
“Josh and Hailee have always been admired for their work, but this is the type of legacy that will be remembered long after they retire from their respective careers,” said sports journalist Laura Spencer. “They’ve shown us that being a hero is not just about what you do on a field or a screen—it’s about stepping up when others need you the most.”
The Allens’ New Chapter
For Josh and Hailee, this adoption marks a new chapter in their lives. With their hearts full, they are excited to welcome the young girl into their family. The decision to adopt has only deepened their bond as a couple and solidified their shared commitment to making a difference.
“We didn’t do this for the recognition, we did it because it’s the right thing to do,” Hailee said. “This child has brought so much joy into our lives already, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for her.”
As they embark on this new journey together, Josh and Hailee have shown that their success is not measured in touchdowns or awards, but in the lives they touch along the way. Their decision to adopt has not only given a child a second chance at life—it has also reminded us all that love, compassion, and family are the most powerful forces in the world.
