The Detroit Lions faced criticism after they selected linebacker Jack Campbell with the 18th overall pick out of Iowa. However, Campbell has now called those critics out during a press conference held after he signed an extension.

Campbell just signed a contract extension of four years, $81 million, with $51.5 million guaranteed. During the press conference, he explained that hearing negative reactions became motivation rather than discouragement.

"It's funny. I remember that, like it was yesterday...When I got drafted on draft night...I remember a lot of things that were said. A guy from my hometown mailed me a letter. I still have it today, just the CBS Sports article. Just talking about how this is probably the worst pick in NFL history," Campbell said May 27.

The LB also talked about how the criticism didn’t change how he approached the game.

“It wasn’t about proving them wrong,” said Campbell. “For me, it was proving the people who believed in me right.” 

Campbell was drafted in the first round, 18th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, he recorded 95 tackles with two sacks and an interception.

But he had his breakout year in 2025. The LB recorded 176 tackles (89 solo), four passes defended, nine tackles for loss and five QB hits.

Under head coach Dan Campbell, he has developed into a centerpiece defender within Detroit’s improving front seven. He has definitely proved his doubters wrong and proved those who believed in him right.

It Was All About Staying In Detroit For Jack Campbell

Jack Campbell, during the press conference, explained that it was never about the money for him. Even though it has been life-changing, that wasn't his priority. He explained that for him, he just wanted to stay in Detroit.

"For me, and I told Brad [Holmes] this, the No. 1 thing in this whole process is to remain a Lion because I want to be a part of this organization," Campbell said. "Me and my wife absolutely love it here. The people have been so nice to us. And it just feel like home."

Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard has named Campbell as the centerpiece of the Lions' defense during the offseason.

"This is Jack Campbell's defense, and I don't hesitate when I say that," Sheppard said this offseason. "This is Jack Campbell's defense and everyone in that locker room knows it. Point blank period. It all goes through Jack."

It will be interesting to see whether Campbell and the Lions bounce back this year and finally win the franchise's first-ever Super Bowl.

What do you think? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Dhruv Vishnu Nair

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore