Detroit Lions Draft Linebacker Jack Campbell with Pick No. 18
The Detroit Lions were able to address their need at linebacker with the No. 18 pick of the 2023 NFL Draft, selecting linebacker Jack Campbell.
Projected by many to be selected in the second round, the talented linebacker will have an opportunity quickly to make an impact in Aaron Glenn's defense.
According to NFL Draft Bible, Campbell is "an all-world tackler. Campbell uses length, range and instincts to impact the game. Extended frame with stretched-out limbs. Turns this into an advantage, scoping out the offense and attacking accordingly. Expert tackler who employs precision striking and consistent fundamentals. Capable of dropping his weight and launching to win the leverage game vs. ball-carriers. Hand usage and arm length permit him to navigate in traffic, remaining clean on his path to the running back. Sufficient lateral agility to side-step linemen and fill into his assigned gap."
Based on film review, Campbell will quickly impress's Detroit coaching staff, as he is known as a "very cerebral player" and a reliable tackler.
Arguably Campbell was the prospect with the highest floor of the entire draft class, as his physical intangibles made him a desired prospect coming out of college.
The 6-foot-5, 246-pound former Hawkeyes linebacker earned an 85.6 grade against the run and a 92.9 grade in coverage in 2022.
Campbell compiled a total of 271 tackles during his final two seasons in Iowa City. Also, he recorded 11 passes defensed, four interceptions, nine tackles for loss and two sacks.
In his career, he totaled 299 tackles, including 12.5 for loss, along with three sacks and five interceptions.
Campbell also was the recipient of the Butkus Award this past season, which is awarded to the country's top linebacker.
Many pundits are impressed with his leadership potential, too. In fact, several analysts believe he has the potential to become the leader of Detroit's defense in the future.
"He plays fairly fast. He’s a really smart player," said Fox Sports' Joel Klatt. "He makes every play you need him to make. He’s a sure tackler. He’s the type of guy that can come in and eventually be the captain of your defense."
Barring any trades, Detroit will not have any more Day 1 selections.
