Lions Jack Campbell endured a disappointing first season, considering the team drafted him 18th overall and made Campbell a starter before the middle of the year. But it sounds like he might be ready to rebound with a big Year 2. DC Aaron Glenn began speaking of Campbell's improvement even before the team hit the field for spring workouts. It has reportedly showed in the LB's play as well, including 2 INTs off Jared Goff in Tuesday's minicamp practice. Campbell seems to be trending toward more of a full-time role in 2024.
What They're Saying
Glenn on Campbell's offseason and minicamp: "He’s really taken control of this offseason the way he should take control of it. He’s a true Mike backer. He’s a guy that lives, breathes, green-dot mentality as a Mike backer. … Then just watching him on the field, his zone drop, his mentality as far as going after the football is outstanding. We only had two days of practice, and he’s doing a heck of a job."
Lions LB Alex Anzalone on Campbell's improvement: "I think he's definitely he's built off of what he did the tail end of the year last year. I think he's obviously more comfortable with the play calls."
2024 Fantasy Football Impact
If Campbell heads into the season wearing the green dot, it'll show the Lions intend to play him full time. That helmet goes to the guy relaying plays from the coordinator to the defensive huddle.
Detroit's Round 1 selection of Campbell last year indicated they expected this type of performance early in his career. This early confirmation appears to put Campbell on pace for a breakout season.
Don't be surprised if Campbell moves up our LB rankings through the summer.
Dynasty Impact
Campbell already sits inside the top 8 at LB in our dynasty IDP rankings. He's a good bet long term in spite of the disappointing debut.