The Detroit Lions’ defense took a beating from injuries in 2024 — but there was a silver lining: young players got their chance to shine. Despite all the setbacks, the Lions powered through to a 15-2 record and clinched the NFC’s top playoff seed. Sure, the playoff run ended in disappointment, but the experience gained could pay off big in 2025.
One of the biggest breakout names was linebacker Jack Campbell. With veteran Alex Anzalone sidelined part of the year, Campbell stepped up in his second NFL season, proving he’s more than ready for the spotlight. According to PFF analyst Dalton Wasserman, Campbell is a name to watch, possibly on his way to becoming one of the league’s best at his position.
Campbell’s numbers back it up: 131 tackles, five passes defended, one forced fumble — all career highs. Even better, his performance earned him a 78.7 overall PFF grade, ranking him 10th among all linebackers. And if you take out two rough games against Houston and Buffalo, his grade jumps to an elite 86.9, which would’ve ranked fourth overall.
As the Lions look ahead, Campbell’s continued growth is crucial. Anzalone’s under contract through 2025, but at 30, he’s not the long-term solution. Campbell, the former first-round pick, is clearly being groomed to take on that leadership role on and off the field. If he continues this upward trajectory, the Lions will not only have stability at linebacker but also added flexibility with their defensive schemes.
Drafting Campbell raised some eyebrows back in 2023, but now it’s starting to look like one of Detroit’s smartest moves. If he reaches the heights many are projecting, it could be a game-changer for the Lions’ defense in 2025 and beyond.
