The Lions hadn't offered many details after linebacker Jack Campbell left Sunday's game against the Vikings on a stretcher. On Wednesday, we finally heard from the player himself.
And the early update is encouraging.
Campbell went down motionless after he tackled Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson in the fourth quarter of Detroit's Week 8 win. And though Lions head coach Dan Campbell said the team got "positive" newson Monday, it was still unclear what that meant.
In a lengthy statement through the Lions' social media accounts, the linebacker thanked everyone for the support and confirmed that he has "full movement" in his lower body. He added that he is making progress with his upper body.
He wrote:
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
Let's hope he continues to make great progress in his recovery.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Lions LB Jack Campbell offered encouraging update after injury left him hospitalized
