Lions’ Jack Campbell remains hospitalized after ‘scary’ neck injury but initial signs are positive

The Detroit Lions have said the initial signs for Jack Campbell are “positive” after the linebacker was carted off the field and taken to hospital when he suffered a neck injury during Sunday’s win over the Minnesota Vikings.

The 26-year-old was treated for nine minutes on the field after making a tackle during Sunday’s game. Players from both teams were visibly distraught as Campbell received medical attention before he was taken for further treatment at a nearby facility.

“Jack Campbell continues to rest and recover at a local hospital,” the Lions said in a statement on Monday. “Preliminary indications are positive and out of respect for Jack and his family we will not share further information at this time.”

Lions coach Dan Campbell also gave a brief update on the linebacker’s condition on Monday. “It’s positive news on Jack,” said Dan Campbell. “So your prayers are working. Please continue to do that and we’ll leave it at that.”

The Lions coach also paid tribute to the former first-round pick’s contributions to the team.

“I don’t even know if I can put it into words. You get voted captain, that says a ton, especially with this group of guys. He earned every bit of that. He’s trustworthy. He’s dependable. He’d give you the shirt off his back,” said Dan Campbell. “He’s just all heart, all effort. And just an unbelievable person. Down to earth. Very genuine. There’s not a man on this team that doesn’t respect Jack Campbell and care about him.”

On Sunday, Lions quarterback Jared Goff spoke about the anxiety that had surrounded the injury.

“Jack’s deal was definitely scary,” Goff said. “It just brings you back to reality for a moment that he’s a husband and a father.

“Scary. We’re praying for him and hope he’s going to be all right. If anyone is tough enough to get through something like that, it’s going to be him.”

Campbell was named an All-Pro last season and is in his fourth year in the league. In May, he signed a four-year contract extension with the Lions worth $81m.