Detroit Lions announce extension for All-Pro LB Jack Campbell

(Getty Images)

Allen Park — The Detroit Lions got the first of four planned contract extensions done with key members of the team’s 2023 draft class, signing linebacker Jack Campbell to a deal that will keep him in Detroit through the 2030 season.

Additional terms of the extension were not immediately revealed.

The team announced the move in an exclusive email to season ticket holders minutes before sharing the news publicly, including a short video from Campbell.

“I just want to let you guys know I signed my extension,” Campbell said. “I’m excited to be back. I’m excited to be here long-term. Now, it’s time to go win a Super Bowl.”

Campbell, a first-round pick in 2023, No. 18 overall, quickly developed into an on-field leader for the Lions and one of the NFL’s best off-ball linebackers. After pacing the team with 131 tackles in his second season, he followed it up with 176 stops, 5.0 sacks and three forced fumbles last year, earning first-team All-Pro honors for his effort.

“This is Jack Campbell’s defense,” defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard said earlier this offseason. “I don’t hesitate when I say that. This is Jack Campbell’s defense and everybody in that locker room knows it. Point blank. Period. It all goes through Jack. If Jack makes a check, it’s just as if I said it. If Jack makes a call, it’s just as if I’ve said it.

“Jack started to get into the realm of checking things during the year and I never questioned him, because I know the time he puts in,” Sheppard said. “…When you have that type of trust coach to player, player to coach, that’s where you see ascension. And as the player ascends, the unit ascends and the team ascends. So, man, I just can’t wait. I’m very fortunate that I’m able to coach a player like that. I’m not talking ability. I’m talking about the man that he is.”

Campbell is one of four players from his draft class who the Lions have expressed interest in extending this offseason. The team is also hopeful to get deals done with running back Jahmyr Gibbs, safety Brian Branch and tight end Sam LaPorta.

The Lions have a little more time on their side with Gibbs after exercising the fifth-year option on his rookie contract. However, a long-term deal would help keep his cap number manageable in 2027 and 2028.

LaPorta and Branch, meanwhile, are both working their way back from season-ending injuries. LaPorta, who required back surgery to address a herniated disc, should be ready for training camp.

Branch, on the other hand, is recovering from a torn Achilles that could keep him sidelined until midseason.

Regardless, the Lions have expressed confidence about both players’ recoveries and general manager Brad Holmes said the team doesn’t necessarily need to see either return to action prior to coming to terms on new deals.

Campbell becomes the latest Holmes’ draft pick to earn a multi-year second contract with the franchise. He follows Penei Sewell, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Alim McNeill, Derrick Barnes, Aidan Hutchinson, Kerby Joseph, Jameson Williams. A few others, including Levi Onwuzurike and Malcolm Rodriguez, have re-signed on one-year contracts.