Overall, Jack Campbell had a successful rookie season, finishing second on the Detroit Lions in tackles while playing all 17 games and starting 12 of them. He experienced the typical ups and downs of a first-year player and was frequently exposed in covering. As OTAs began last month, Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn commended Campbell’s previous efforts (via SI.com).
“Let me tell you, first off he’s a man. He’s a grown man. He’s really taken control of this offseason the way that he should take control of it,” Glenn said. “He’s a true MIKE backer. He’s a guy that lives, breathes green-dot mentality as a MIKE backer….. Just the way he’s leading the men, as far as defense, is impressive to see.”
Campbell then appeared during mandatory minicamp (a two-interception day), and he has become unmistakable as a breakthrough potential this season.
Lions LB coach Kelvin Sheppard praises Jack Campbell
Kelvin Sheppard is a sneaky rising star on the Lions’ coaching staff. It feels inevitable he’ll make the jump from linebackers coach to a defensive coordinator post, then eventually be a head coach. By all accounts he’s a demanding coach, but he also willingly praises players.
Sheppard spoke with reporters last week, per Pride of Detroit, about Campbell, who appears to be taking over as the Lions’ MIKE linebacker.
It’s hard to get a full tell, obviously, physically on the linebacker position during this time of year due to the physical nature that we play, especially here, but he’s exceeded my expectations which were already high,” Sheppard said. “He’s come back further along than where I expected.”
“I’m telling you it’s at another level,” Sheppard said. “This guy here’s operating like an eight-year vet as far as making the calls, how he sets the standard of how we practice as a defense, and I think other guys are starting to look towards him now.”
Campbell cited his first season, during which he played numerous positions (including edge rusher), for helping him understand the overall picture beyond his particular responsibilities in a given position. He was given the “green dot” when Alex Anzalone was missing for the voluntary portion of OTAs, and Glenn and Sheppard praised his development into the job. As other aspects of the Lions’ defense develop, Campbell will be a vital piece of the jigsaw, and he is assuming that role.
