Detroit Lions star linebacker Jack Campbell was seemingly unable to move following a tackle against a Minnesota Vikings player on Sunday, November 1.
Campbell, 26, was “immobilized,” according to FOX NFL commentators, following what appeared to be a relatively normal tackle against Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson. He was moved onto a backboard and then a cart in order to be safely transported off the field after the Lions’ athletic training staff swarmed the linebacker, who did not move after his initial fall.
“This appears to be a serious scene in Detroit,” Michigan Sportscaster Brad Galli wrote via X after the tackle. “The Lions athletic training staff is moving with a purpose to help Jack Campbell, who fell and didn’t move.”
Shortly after, the official X account for the Lions shared an update on the linebacker’s status.
“Jack Campbell is being transported to a local hospital to be evaluated for a neck injury,” the post read. No additional updates regarding the player’s health status have been publicly revealed at the time of publication.
Several members of both the Vikings and the Lions were seen taking a knee for the duration of Campbell’s time on the field as an audible hush fell over the crowd at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan.
Many of Campbell’s teammates — including edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson — were visibly upset after the play and while Campbell was tended to by medical staff. Several of Campbell’s teammates were seen wiping tears from their eyes as they tried to rally their fellow players after Campbell was removed from the field.
“Heavy emotions in Detroit,” Galli also wrote via X after his initial post regarding the incident. “All the Lions players and coaches surrounded Jack Campbell before he was carted off at Ford Field.”
Sideline reporter Erin Andrews spoke candidly about what Campbell means to the organization after speaking with a member of the team.
“He said, ‘This is Jack Campbell’s defense. I don’t hesitate to say that it goes through him and everyone in that locker room knows that,” Andrews, 48, reported on Sunday, seemingly also emotional as her voice cracked. “Point blank period.”
Legendary New England Patriots quarterback-turned-color commentator Tom Brady was asked how it’s even possible for teammates return to the field and the task at hand after watching what was clearly a severe injury.
“It’s very difficult for everybody, obviously, but it’s also part of what you’ve been doing your whole life,” Brady, 49, said on-air after Campbell was carted off the field. “He’s under great medical care and attention and you have to go back out there and do your job.”
The Lions ultimately defeated the Vikings 19-15.
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