Kelvin Sheppard Reveals Why Detroit Lions Jack Campbell Is Having More Fun

Detroit Lions rookie linebacker Jack Campbell appears slightly more relaxed around the team's Allen Park practice facility. 

Detroit's coaching staff had to remind the talented linebacker earlier this year the game was supposed to be fun, as he was observed alone at times after practice, laser-focused on his craft. 

Campbell expressed to reporters earlier this year he was taught by his collegiate coaches to carry himself a certain way and to represent himself and his family with the utmost integrity. 

Over the past couple of weeks, the 2023 first-round draft pick has seen his snap count steadily increase, as his role in Aaron Glenn's defense has expanded. 

"We’ve said this from the beginning, that player’s going to play because he’s a good player," Glenn told reporters, when asked to assess how Campbell has handled his increased role. "That’s the reason why we drafted him, so we’re going to continue to develop him. This is the NFL, it’s totally different than college and he understands that. Is he perfect? No, but no player is perfect, but he’s doing a really good job for us.”

Winning certainly does cure all, and certainly makes it more fun to be relaxed and more light-hearted around the facility. 

Detroit has been able to secure double-digit wins the past four games. 

Following the disappointing loss to the Seahawks, the roster has reduced the number of critical errors, and has played effectively on both sides of the football. 

Linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard noted Friday, via MLive, "Jack will be the first to tell you it's only fun when you're kicking someone's ass."