While not many teams are eager to pay linebackers big bucks, the Detroit Lions gladly agreed to pay their veteran. Jack Campbell had the second-most tackles in the league last season, and they rewarded him with a four-year, $81 million contract.
However, through the first four games of the season, Campbell has looked like a shell of himself. It hasn't been a lack of effort, but for whatever reason, the high-volume tackler has made a minimal impact thus far.
More than that, Campbell is being a liability in coverage, and the lack of production has officially become alarming. With Kelvin Sheppard's defense struggling so much and the Lions sitting on a 2-2 record, something's gotta give.
The Detroit Lions need much more from Jack Campbell
Coming off a career year, Campbell is now third on the Lions' struggling defense in tackles (24). While his missed tackle percentage (5.7) is still impressive, he looks gassed and out of stamina late in games, and he's often caught on the wrong side of a big play.
According to Pro Football Focus (subscription required), Campbell has given up the second-highest passer rating among eligible linebackers (147.9). That has also given him the second-worst overall grade at the position (41.2).
He's struggled mightily in coverage, giving up 16 receptions on 19 targets for 174 yards, 10.9 yards per reception, 49 yards after the catch, and two touchdowns. Teams are starting to pick on him, and the Lions clearly don't have an answer.
All things considered, there's no way the Lions will bench their veteran, not even down the stretch when he's clearly tired. He's making way too much money, and he's a beloved and respected veteran who's earned the benefit of the doubt.
That said, while he's not to blame for this dip in his production, the coaches (and himself) must find a way to get him back to his old self. He used to be a tackling machine and an elite run stopper, and while he's never been a shutdown guy in coverage, he's already midway through the four touchdown receptions he allowed last season.
The Lions' defense is desperate for answers, and Kelvin Sheppard might not be the right guy to lead the way. But with Dan Campbell's reluctance to let him go and the front office's determination not to make a big move, this could be yet another long season in Detroit.
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