The Detroit Lions are approaching a critical period as they prepare to make major roster decisions this offseason, with particular focus on their linebacker group. The situation is especially tense due to Alex Anzalone’s status as a free agent and his ongoing demand for a new contract, which contrasts sharply with the rapid emergence of Jack Campbell as a defensive leader.
Campbell’s development in 2025 marked a significant breakthrough, highlighted by his first Pro Bowl selection after recording 95 tackles and five sacks. According to the grading by Pro Football Focus and analysis from Mason Cameron, Campbell ranked second among the top 20 linebackers last year, demonstrating his impact beyond traditional statistics.
Campbell has continually raised the standard of his game each season, rising from a 53.2 PFF overall grade as a rookie to a massive 90.2 mark this past year. The 25-year-old linebacker earned the highest PFF run-defense grade (93.0) by a linebacker in the PFF era (since 2006).
This impressive progression has solidified Campbell’s standing within the Lions organization. Heading into the 2026 campaign, he is widely viewed as a cornerstone of Detroit’s defense, if not its foremost player. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard underscored this shift in leadership, affirming that the defense now revolves around Campbell’s presence and influence.
Lions DC Kelvin Sheppard on Jack Campbell:
“This is Jack Campbell’s defense, and everyone in that locker room knows that.”
— Colton Pouncy, February 24, 2026
The Impact of Campbell’s Growth on Anzalone’s Future with the Lions
The Lions face balancing multiple roster needs and contract negotiations this offseason, making re-signing Anzalone a lower priority. When Detroit initially signed Anzalone in 2021, the linebacker brought much-needed veteran experience to a thin position, helping to stabilize the defense early in head coach Dan Campbell’s tenure.
However, the team’s shift toward youth, exemplified by the development of Jack Campbell and Derrick Barnes, signals a new direction. Both players represent the next wave of defensive leadership, diminishing the urgency to offer Anzalone a costly extension. Instead, the Lions appear more inclined to invest in younger talent, potentially adding new linebackers through the draft to complement Campbell and Barnes.
Though Anzalone has been an important figure in Detroit’s rebuild, football’s business realities come into play. Approaching his 32nd birthday in September, Anzalone’s age and contract demands conflict with the Lions’ strategy to maintain a young roster capable of sustained success and an extended Super Bowl window.
The decision to draft Campbell in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft was widely interpreted as a strategic move to groom him as Anzalone’s successor. Campbell’s accelerated rise has fast-tracked this transition, forcing the Lions to confront a difficult roster choice. The organization’s willingness to pivot toward Campbell underscores their commitment to building a defense around his skill set as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
Lions DC Kelvin Sheppard on Jack Campbell: “This is Jack Campbell’s defense, and everyone in that locker room knows that.”
— Colton Pouncy (@colton_pouncy) February 24, 2026
