IOWA CITY, Iowa – Former Iowa linebacker Jack Campbell, who now plays for the Detroit Lions, released a statement on Wednesday updating his medical situation.

Campbell suffered a neck injury in the fourth quarter of last Sunday’s 19-15 victory over Minnesota. He was face down on the turf after hitting Minnesota tight end T.J. Hockenson, who also played for Iowa.

Campbell, who remains hospitalized, was placed on a backboard and carted off the field early in the fourth quarter. He was alert and breathing when he was taken to the hospital.

Campbell was drafted by the Lions with the 18th overall pick in 2023.

Last season, Campbell was an All-Pro selection after becoming the first NFL player in seven years to have 150-plus tackles and at least five sacks and three forced fumbles.

The Lions signed Campbell last May to a four-year contract extension that runs through the 2030 season.

The Cedar Falls native earned unanimous consensus All-America honors as a senior at Iowa in 2022.

His younger brother, Drew Campbell is a defensive end on the current Iowa football team.

Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz started his weekly press conference on Tuesday by addressing Campbell’s situation.

“I think all of you know just how impactful Jack was in our program, what a tremendous person he is, what a tremendous player he’s been for us, and now he’s moved on and done the exact same thing in Detroit,” Ferentz said. “Not only playing really well, but just a tremendous leader and tremendous addition.

“We’re all keeping him in our thoughts, and certainly hope everybody that’s a Hawkeye fan does the same.”

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Statement from Jack Campbell:

“My family and I want to sincerely thank everyone for the overwhelming amount of love, prayers, and support we’ve received over the past few days. It means more to us than words can express.

I’m incredibly encouraged by the progress I’ve made in such a short period of time. I have full movement in my lower body, and I’m continuing to make progress with movement in my upper body. I know there’s still work ahead, but I remain very optimistic. I’m taking things one day at a time, staying positive, and focusing on getting better.

My faith in God has never been stronger. I know He has a plan for me, and I trust in that plan. I know there may be challenges ahead, but with my faith, my family, and so many people in my corner, I know we’ll get through this.

I especially want to thank the athletic trainers and medical personnel who responded and cared for me on the field. I know those were difficult moments, and I’m incredibly grateful for the professionalism, compassion, and care you showed me. The way you handled everything and looked after me when I needed it most is something I’ll never forget. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

I also can’t say enough about the incredible care I’ve received from the medical team at Henry Ford Hospital and the Detroit Lions medical staff. They’ve been amazing to me and my family throughout this process, and I’m truly grateful for everything they’ve done.

To my teammates, coaches, and everyone in the Lions organization, I want you to know how much I love and appreciate you. This team is a family to me, and the way everyone has been there for me means everything. I’m proud to be a Detroit Lion and couldn’t ask to be surrounded by a better group of people.

One thing I’ve learned about Detroit is that this city is built on toughness, resilience, and grit. That’s exactly how I’m going to approach this challenge.

Please continue to keep me and my family in your prayers. We feel the love, and I can’t thank everyone enough.

God is good. My faith is strong.”

Jack Campbell