ALLEN PARK, Mich. – Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell said that having running back Jahmyr Gibbs back on the practice field is a boost for the team, even if it makes life more difficult for the defense.
Gibbs, who recently agreed to a contract extension that makes him the NFL’s highest-paid running back by average annual value, returned to practice after participating in meetings during training camp but spending limited time on the field.
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Campbell joked that seeing Gibbs back immediately reminded him of the challenges the star running back presents.
“When I saw him back out there, I was like, ‘Gosh, now I’ve got to go one-on-one against him in routes,’” Campbell said. “It’s awesome to have Jah back out here.”
Campbell and Gibbs entered the league together in 2023 after the Lions selected both players in the first round of the NFL draft.
Campbell praised Gibbs not only for his playmaking ability but also for the impact he has had as a teammate.
“He’s electric,” Campbell said. “He’s been nothing but good to me and my family the whole time I’ve been here. He’s just a fantastic human being.”
Entering his third NFL season, Campbell said he expects to continue embracing a heavy workload on defense and special teams if needed.
“I want as many reps as I can get,” Campbell said. “Ones, twos, threes, fours, fives, I don’t care who’s it against. Just let me get my body going.”
Campbell said there are no excuses for slowing down after special teams plays, adding that players must be prepared to contribute whenever called upon.
The linebacker also praised rookie defensive tackle Skyler Gill-Howard, saying the young lineman has shown versatility at the three-technique position.
“He can do a lot of things at the three-technique position that a lot of guys can’t do,” Campbell said. “He’s done a good job. He just needs to keep going.”
Campbell also discussed Detroit’s defensive outlook as offenses across the NFL continue evolving.
While many teams have relied heavily on three-receiver formations in recent years, Campbell believes more offenses will return to using multiple running backs and tight ends this season.
“I know it’s coming,” Campbell said. “A lot of teams are going to get back into two-back personnel.”
He said heavier offensive formations create different challenges for defenses and could influence how often Detroit uses its nickel package.
Campbell noted that the responsibilities for Detroit’s nickel defender and third linebacker are largely interchangeable, allowing the defense to remain flexible regardless of personnel.
Veteran linebacker Devin White has also made a strong early impression after joining the Lions, according to Campbell.
“He’s been great,” Campbell said. “He’s a true vet. He’s been in the league twice as long as me. He’s learned the system so fast and has done a fantastic job.”
Campbell said leadership throughout Detroit’s defense has continued to grow during training camp.
He highlighted former Michigan Wolverines star and current defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, cornerback D.J. Reed Jr., linebacker Derrick Barnes and several veterans for helping establish accountability throughout the roster.
“We’ve done a good job on that front,” Campbell said. “But there’s more to be had.”