The Detroit Lions know last season's defensive performance wasn't good enough, and linebacker Jack Campbell believes that has to change immediately. After the Lions finished 9-8 and missed the playoffs in 2025, much of the offseason discussion centered on their defense. 

The Lions had their training camp day at Meijer Performance, after which Jack Campbell addressed the media.

"There’s no excuses, that’s like something, obviously, we’re not going to go for this year. It’s just to get your job done, and if you don’t do it, you can see it on the tape. It's blatant," Jack Campbell said. "Doesn’t matter if you’re the top guy or the bottom guy on the roster, we need you to do your job. And everyone will be held accountable, and I feel like that also starts with me. I can work to continue to improve on that."

Speaking to the media as posted by the Lions YouTube channel on July 31, Jack's comments reflected the tone Detroit hopes will define its defense this season. 

Several Lions’ players have been forced into larger roles due to injuries. That led to the Lions finishing 18th in the NFL in yards allowed per game at 331.9 while ranking 22nd in scoring defense at 24.3 points allowed per game.

Jack also pointed out that the injuries won't carry much weight inside the locker room. Several key defenders are back from injury as Detroit tries to improve on last season's defensive numbers.

As training camp continues, there are several injury concerns that have already created some setbacks.

Dan Campbell provides a timeline for injured Lions rookies

Speaking to the media after the training camp on August 3, head coach Dan Campbell shared injury updates on three rookies. The most serious involved fourth-round linebacker Jimmy Rolder.

Rolder faces a longer absence after suffering a hamstring injury. Dan Campbell said the rookie will be "out for a while," though he added the injury is not season-ending. Detroit has also signed veteran linebacker Devin White to provide depth while Rolder recovers.

First-round offensive tackle Blake Miller returned to practice after being limited as a precaution the previous day. Dan Campbell said Miller "wanted to do more" and that he felt good heading into the team's first padded practice.

Second-round edge rusher Derrick Moore is expected to miss about seven to 10 days due to a minor groin strain. He is expected to miss Detroit's preseason opener against the Cincinnati Bengals on Aug. 13 because of the injury.

Dan Campbell said the injuries were "unfortunate" and added that every practice matters for young players trying to establish themselves.

Moore is expected to be back before the regular season. Rolder will spend that time recovering while Detroit continues training camp.

Share your thoughts on how Jack Campbell's offseason message will charge up the Lions defense.

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Written by

Evince Das

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar