Detroit Lions player Jack Campbell says he is working to regain movement after mid-game hit
Jack Campbell was carted off the field during the Lions' game on Sunday.
A Detroit Lions player who was carted off the field during the team's game on Sunday says he remains hospitalized and at least partially paralyzed in his upper body.
Jack Campbell, an All-Pro linebacker for the Lions, said in his first statement since the injury that he is focused on "getting better."
"I have full movement in my lower body, and I'm continuing to make progress with movement in my upper body," Campbell said in a statement released by the Lions Wednesday. "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."
The statement from Campbell is the first indication of the scope of his injuries following the hit during the team's game Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings.
The 26-year-old player was face down on the field and not moving after tackling a Vikings player in the game's fourth quarter, according to ESPN. He was eventually placed on a board and carted off the field.
Lions officials have not shared specific details of Campbell's injury so far.
On Monday, the team said in a statement, "Jack Campbell continues to rest and recover at a local hospital. Preliminary indications are positive and out of respect for Jack and his family, we will not share further information at this time."
Campbell, an Iowa native, was drafted by the Lions in the 2023 NFL Draft.
In his statement Wednesday, he thanked the Lions' coaches, players and medical staff, particularly those who assisted him on the field.
"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," he said. "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."
The Walt Disney Co. is the parent company of ABC News and ESPN.