Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell's road to recovery is on the hearts and minds of teammates, coaches and fans as the Lions prepare for their Week 9 road game against the Miami Dolphins.
Campbell and the Lions have provided progressively positive updates after the linebacker was carted off the field on Sunday, Nov. 1, when he fell limp to the Ford Field turf
after tackling Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson.Campbell has been hospitalized at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit since suffering an undisclosed spinal injury. While much remains publicly unknown about Campbell's diagnosis, recovery and long-term prognosis, here's what we know as the Lions (5-2) prepare for what's sure to be an emotional game against the 1-6 Dolphins.
What's the latest Jack Campbell injury update?
Campbell
posted his first, and so far only, public statement following his injury on Wednesday, Nov. 4, announcing that he has full movement in his lower body and was continuing to make progress with movement in his upper body. It marked the first concrete update on the linebacker's condition since he suffered a neck injury during the Lions' Week 8 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, Nov. 1.
Prior to his statement, the updates had been more general and left many concerned about Campbell's condition after he was carted off the field on a backboard.
"I know there’s still work ahead, but I remain very optimistic," Campbell wrote. "I'm taking things one day at a time, staying positive, and focusing on getting better."
Is Jack Campbell still in the hospital?
The Lions have not provided updates about where Campbell is receiving treatment beyond saying that he was hospitalized following the injury, and Campbell on Wednesday, Nov. 4, thanking his caregivers at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit and the Detroit Lions medical staff.
Is Jack Campbell paralyzed?
Campbell appears to have avoided the worst fears that immediately followed his injury, as his updates indicate that he has avoided full paralysis from the neck down. Campbell said he has "full movement in my lower body" and was working to regain upper-body movement as part of his recovery.
Does Jack Campbell have central cord syndrome?
Campbell's medical diagnosis has not yet been made public. Medical experts reached by USA TODAY did point out the uniqueness of Campbell's post-injury symptoms, saying that delayed recovery of upper-body movement could be associated with central cord syndrome. It's a rare medical condition common in people with spinal injuries who have fallen forward and land on their forehead and extend backward, similar to the action exhibited by Campbell’s head and neck at impact.
“I think it’s great news (if it’s central cord syndrome) because it’s an incomplete spinal-cord injury,” neurosurgeon Dr. Betsy Grunch said, “and if he’s already recovering as quickly as reported, then it’s quite possible he can make a full recovery.”
Is Jack Campbell out for the season? Will he play again?
The Lions have not provided any timeline for Campbell to return to football activities, as he likely faces an extended period of recovery and rest as he works toward regaining full function of his extremities.
Campbell, in his statement, said: "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."
When do the Lions play the Dolphins in Week 9?
The Lions will play their first game without Campbell against the Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, Nov. 8.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Jack Campbell injury update ahead of Lions vs. Dolphins in Week 9
