Imagine a rookie linebacker not just dominating on the field with tackles and sacks, but also stepping up as a strategic mastermind, calling plays like a seasoned coach. That's the electrifying story of Jack Campbell with the Detroit Lions, drawing whispers of Hall of Fame greatness—and it's got fans buzzing. But here's where it gets controversial: Is this young talent really on the path to legends like Brian Urlacher and Ray Lewis, or is it just hype from an early-season hot streak? Stick around, because we're diving deep into the mental game that's transforming Campbell, plus some intriguing side stories from the Lions' world that might just change how you view football strategy.
Jack Campbell, the Lions' dynamic linebacker, has kicked off the season with an impressive tally: 48 tackles, one sack, and two forced fumbles in just five games. Yet, according to Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, the real breakthrough for Campbell in his third NFL year isn't about physical stats—it's the evolution of his mental approach to the game. Sheppard emphasizes that Campbell's growth has been profound on the cerebral side, something that's rarer than you might think in professional football.
'It’s uncommon to find a player who can effectively communicate and direct the game plan on the field,' Sheppard explained. 'The reason is the sheer effort required. Many athletes are gifted with natural talent, and that often leads them to believe they don't need to invest extra time in preparation. It's just part of being human—we all hit that point where we think, "I've got this covered, so why study more? I can just overpower my opponent."'
To foster this development, Sheppard and Campbell hold regular weekly meetings. They review the game plan in detail, ensuring Campbell grasps the reasoning behind Sheppard's play-calling decisions in various scenarios. This hands-on mentorship is helping Campbell bridge the gap between raw ability and strategic insight. And this is the part most people miss: In his second year wearing the defensive communication helmet—a device that allows players to receive real-time instructions—Campbell is now entering the elite tier of 'green-dot linebackers' in the league. For those new to football lingo, a green-dot linebacker is essentially a player who wears a special helmet indicator, signaling they're the primary communicator on defense, adapting plays on the fly without constant coaching intervention.
'I'm referring to icons like Brian Urlacher, Ray Lewis, and Luke Kuechly—those rare talents who could pivot strategies mid-game without a coach hovering,' Sheppard noted. 'It's exceptional, and luckily, we have two such players on our roster. It's not solely Jack; Alex Anzalone has been excelling in this role for a couple of years now.' Sheppard affectionately dubbed Campbell and Anzalone, who previously wore the green-dot helmet, the 'Batman and Robin' of the Lions' defense. 'They're the steady anchors amid chaos,' he said. 'When tensions rise and frustration builds on the field, they're the ones reassuring the team: "Hey, we've got this. Trust the call—it makes sense." They amplify the messages I share in the locker room and huddle, and it resonates differently coming from a peer.'
But here's where it gets controversial: Are Campbell and Anzalone truly the next generation of defensive geniuses, or is Sheppard setting expectations too high by comparing them to Hall of Famers? Some might argue that true greatness requires more than early promise—think of how many hyped prospects fade. What do you think? Is this comparison fair, or just motivational talk?
Shifting gears, Sheppard's own journey includes a strong bond with Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, forged during Sheppard's playing days with the New York Giants from 2016 to 2017, when Spagnuolo was an assistant coach. They've stayed in close contact this season, exchanging ideas regularly—though not this week, as Sheppard mentioned. 'The phone hasn't rung lately, but before that, it was nonstop,' Sheppard shared. 'I'd joke, "Don't you have a game today?" He'd reply, "Good luck, brother—I'm cheering for you." Even during training camp, we'd chat weekly. I'd get texts like, "Need anything? Got thoughts to share?" And he doesn't have to do this; as a Hall of Fame coordinator with the Chiefs, expected to contend for the Super Bowl annually, his plate is overflowing. Yet he makes time for me. I owe him a ton.'
Spagnuolo, speaking to the Free Press at the Super Bowl in February, expressed admiration for Sheppard, predicting he'll become an NFL head coach someday. Sheppard reciprocates that respect. 'Spags was among the first outside my brother Dan Campbell to see coaching potential in me,' Sheppard recalled. 'He urged me to pursue coaching, explaining the reasons behind it all. I value mentors who not only believe in you but invest time in your growth.' This relationship highlights the importance of networking in football, where shared wisdom can elevate careers— a subtle reminder that success often builds on connections, not just individual talent.
Now, onto the offensive side: Lions offensive coordinator John Morton offered a positive yet realistic take on Gio Manu's debut as a starter at left tackle last week against the Cincinnati Bengals. 'It was promising overall,' Morton said. 'Sure, there were areas in communication and technique that could improve, but hey, we secured the win. The strategy was designed to shield that side, and the coaching staff executed it well. I walked away encouraged.'
Manu handled all 62 offensive snaps at left tackle in place of the injured Taylor Decker, conceding two sacks and missing a few pass-blocking opportunities. However, he shone in the run game, contributing to the Lions' 118 rushing yards against a Bengals defense focused on stopping the ground attack. Decker's availability for the upcoming game remains unclear, leaving questions about whether Manu or Dan Skipper will step in if needed. 'He's still young, so he'll grow from these experiences,' Morton added. 'More repetitions will refine his skills. But yes, I was encouraged.' For beginners, this underscores how NFL rookies often face steep learning curves, balancing high-stakes performances with room for error—much like any professional honing their craft.
And this is the part most people miss: The Lions' special teams are also making waves. Kalif Raymond is just 58 yards shy of breaking Mel Gray's franchise record for career punt-return yards, currently at 1,427. 'This reflects his competitive spirit and the support from his teammates,' said special teams coordinator Dave Fipp. 'The blockers and holders are stepping up, and Raymond trusts them implicitly. He fields and returns many punts without opting for fair catches, which keeps the momentum alive.'
Raymond ranks third in the NFL with 12 returns so far this season and has notched his third career touchdown on a 65-yard return against the Cleveland Browns. Gray, a former Lion, had two punt-return TDs and five kick-return scores, while Raymond is chasing Jack Christiansen's records for the highest punt-return average (12.8 yards per return) and most career punt-return TDs (eight). Despite a neck injury against the Bengals that might sideline him against the Chiefs, Raymond has amassed 1,369 career punt-return yards at a 12.2-yard average. 'He's an outstanding athlete—competitive and beloved by all,' Fipp praised. 'This milestone speaks to both his talent and the team's unity.'
But here's where it gets controversial: In an era of player safety concerns, is Raymond's aggressive return style worth the risk of injury? Some fans debate whether the thrill of a big play justifies potential long-term harm, especially with records on the line. Others see it as the essence of football's daring spirit. What side are you on? Do you celebrate this high-risk, high-reward approach, or worry it's outdated?
Dave Birkett covers the Lions for the Detroit Free Press. Reach out to him at dbirkett@freepress.com. Follow him on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/davebirkett.bsky.social), X (https://x.com/davebirkett), and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/davebirkett/) at @davebirkett.
What are your thoughts on Jack Campbell's rise—do you believe he's destined for Hall of Fame status, or is it premature? And how do you feel about the balance between player development and safety in special teams? Share your opinions in the comments below; I'd love to hear agreements, disagreements, or fresh perspectives!
