Detroit Lions All-Pro linebacker Jack Campbell was placed on a backboard and carted off the field early in the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Vikings, in a frightening scene at Ford Field on Sunday.
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Campbell was hurt on the first play of the fourth quarter, with Detroit leading 12-7, when he went down while tackling Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson — his third tackle of the game. He was face down on the turf and not moving as medical personnel rushed in. Players from both teams took a knee as Campbell was immobilized on a backboard and carefully lifted onto a cart to a round of applause.
Lions Say Jack Campbell Taken to Hospital for Neck Injury Evaluation
The Lions announced during the game that Campbell was being transported to a local hospital to be evaluated for a neck injury. Medical staff removed his jersey, secured him to a spinal board and placed a brace on his neck before he left the field.
Head coach Dan Campbell addressed the injury after the game: “Thoughts and prayers are with Jack and his family. He’s being taken care of. We don’t have any new information.” The coach confirmed no diagnosis, prognosis or timetable has been announced.
Injury-Riddled Win as Lions Hand Vikings First Loss
Campbell was one of three key Lions defenders hurt on the day. Pass rusher DJ Wonnum and safety Brian Branch both suffered concussions in the first half and did not return. Teammate Jimmy Rolder also collided with Campbell on the play and was helped off with a hamstring injury.
Despite the mounting injuries, Detroit beat Minnesota 19-15, handing the league’s last undefeated team its first loss. The victory came at a steep cost for a defense that has already been stretched thin. The Lions, who signed Campbell to a four-year extension through 2030 last May, now face an anxious wait for word on their defensive leader.
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Source: ESPN — read the full story there.