Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell has full movement in his lower body and is “incredibly encouraged by the progress” he has made since the terrifying injury he sustained Sunday, he told fans Wednesday.
In his first comments since he was carted off the field in the Lions’ game against the Minnesota Vikings, Campbell tried to alleviate fears that he might have sustained a catastrophic injury.
“My family and I want to sincerely thank everyone for the overwhelming amount of love, prayers, and support we’ve received over the past few days. It means more to us than words can express,” Campbell said in a statement released by the Lions.
“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.”
Early in the fourth quarter Sunday, Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray connected with tight end T.J. Hockenson for a 10-yard gain. Campbell and teammate Eric O’Neill brought down Hockenson in what looked like a routine tackle.
But Campbell, 26, a native of Cedar Falls, Iowa, fell face down on the field and was not moving as medical staffers rushed to his aid. He was strapped onto a medical cart and rushed to the hospital.
“I know there’s still work ahead, but I remain very optimistic,” Campbell said in his statement. “I’m taking things one day at a time, staying positive, and focusing on getting better. My faith in God has never been stronger. I know He has a plan for me, and I trust in that plan.”
He thanked team medical staff members and doctors and other caregivers at Henry Ford Hospital.
“I’m truly grateful for everything they’ve done,” he said. “To my teammates, coaches, and everyone in the Lions organization, I want you to know how much I love and appreciate you. This team is a family to me, and the way everyone has been there for me means everything. I’m proud to be a Detroit Lion and couldn’t ask to be surrounded by a better group of people.”
He said he hopes to show the same amount of “toughness” he sees every day from Motor City residents.
“One thing I’ve learned about Detroit is that this city is built on toughness, resilience, and grit,” Campbell said. “That’s exactly how I’m going to approach this challenge.”
