Jack Campbell

Jack Campbell Bio

Jack Campbell (born August 22, 2000) is an American professional football linebacker for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League (NFL). He was a unanimous All-American playing college football for the Iowa Hawkeyes, winning the Butkus Award in 2022. Campbell was selected by the Lions in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft and named to the All-Rookie Team.

Early Life and Background

Jack Campbell was born in Cedar Falls, Iowa. He attended Cedar Falls High School, where he excelled in both football and basketball. During his time as a junior and senior, he led the Cedar Falls basketball team to back-to-back 4A State Championships in 2018 and 2019. In football, he set a school record with 338 career tackles, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport. Following his high school career, Campbell committed to the University of Iowa to play college football, where he would further develop his skills and gain national recognition.

Path to American Football

Campbell began his college career at the University of Iowa in 2019, where he played in 11 games as a true freshman, recording five tackles. His sophomore year saw him play in five games, amassing 29 tackles, one sack, and one interception. In 2021, he returned as a starter and made a significant impact, recording 140 tackles, two interceptions, a sack, and a touchdown. His performance earned him first-team All-Big Ten honors, leading one of the top defenses in the nation. In 2022, Campbell was named the preseason Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and continued to excel, finishing the regular season with 118 tackles, two interceptions, and multiple forced turnovers. His outstanding performance earned him the Butkus Award, recognizing him as the top linebacker in college football, along with the William V. Campbell Trophy for his achievements as a scholar-athlete.

Jack Campbell Career

Early Career (2019–2022)

Campbell’s early career at Iowa was marked by steady improvement and significant contributions to the team’s defense. His first notable work came in 2021 when he recorded 140 tackles, which established him as a key player on the team. His efforts were recognized with various awards, including first-team All-Big Ten honors and the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in 2022. His college career culminated in a stellar season that solidified his reputation as one of the top linebackers in college football.

Breakthrough (2023–Present)

Jack Campbell’s professional career began when he was selected by the Detroit Lions with the 18th overall pick in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. His transition to the NFL was marked by immediate success, as he recorded his first career sack in a week 3 victory against the Atlanta Falcons. His performance during his rookie season earned him a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team, highlighting his rapid adaptation to the professional level.

Notable Works and Milestones

Throughout his career, Campbell has achieved significant milestones, including being named to the Pro Bowl in 2025 and receiving multiple accolades during his college years, such as the Butkus Award and the William V. Campbell Trophy. His consistent performance on the field has established him as a promising talent in the NFL.

Jack Campbell Award Nominations

Jack Campbell has received several nominations throughout his career, particularly during his time at the University of Iowa, where he was recognized for his outstanding performance on the field.

Jack Campbell Awards Won

Jack Campbell has won numerous awards, including the Butkus Award in 2022, recognizing him as the top linebacker in college football, and the William V. Campbell Trophy for his achievements as a scholar-athlete. He was also named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2023, reflecting his successful transition to the NFL.