Jack Campbell has developed into one of the NFL’s best off-ball linebackers in his second season. The Lions’ first-round pick in 2023 moved inside full-time for the 2024 campaign, and it’s fit him like a glove in the middle of coordinator Aaron Glenn’s aggressive defense.
Campbell has improved in virtually every aspect of his game from his up-and-down rookie season. From short-range coverage to pass rush effectiveness to missed tackle percentage, Campbell has taken a step forward in Year 2.
Yet when asked this week about where he thought Campbell has improved the most, Glenn went to the more intangible aspect of No. 46’s game.
“His ability to communicate across the board in every that we do,” Glenn stated. “And that’s the number one thing as a MIKE linebacker, make sure that we’re in the right situation, no matter what the situation is, just like a quarterback. He’s the quarterback of our defense right now.”
Glenn went on to cite Campbell’s exceptional practice habits as a reason why. Campbell has also come out of his shell a little with a more forceful personality, too.
“He’s a damn good player for us and I keep saying this, he’s a true MIKE linebacker. For him to stand in front of a group of men, the way they respect him is unreal, and you see it, and I’m sure the players talk about that too,” Glenn said admiringly. “He’s a man’s man, he understands what we’re trying to do, and he continues to try to get better.”
