Jack Campbell has quickly become one of the NFL’s premier middle linebackers. But he’s not the only tough-minded Campbell in the league, as head coach Dan Campbell is renowned for his fiery energy and the relentless culture he’s built in Detroit.

Here’s a deeper look at how the two are connected.

Is Jack Campbell related to Dan Campbell?

No, Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell is not related to head coach Dan Campbell.

The shared last name and their connection on the same NFL team have been a lighthearted topic since Jack was drafted 18th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. During their first call, Dan Campbell even joked about it, telling his new player, “Hey man, I love your last name.”

Though not family, many fans and analysts have noticed Jack’s physical, blue-collar style fits perfectly with the mindset and identity Dan has created within the Lions’ locker room.

Where is Jack Campbell from?

Jack Campbell hails from Cedar Falls, Iowa. He played four seasons at the University of Iowa, suiting up in 43 total games. His senior year was historic—he became the first Hawkeye to win both the Butkus Award, given to the top linebacker, and the William V. Campbell Trophy, which honors the best scholar-athlete nationwide.

He earned unanimous First-Team All-Big Ten and All-American honors in his final collegiate season. The Detroit Lions selected him in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

Across his first two NFL campaigns, Campbell totaled 95 and 131 tackles. Through five games in 2025, he already has 48, leading the team.

Where is Dan Campbell from?

Campbell took over as head coach of the Lions on January 20, 2021. When he arrived, Detroit was in rebuilding mode, but he immediately infused the team with toughness and belief, famously declaring they’d “bite a kneecap off” during his first press conference.

Since then, Campbell has led Detroit to a 43-29-1 record, one of the best stretches in franchise history. The Lions claimed their first division crown since 1993 in 2023 and set multiple franchise records, including a 15-2 regular season in 2024. Under his leadership, the Lions have made the playoffs twice, reaching the NFC Championship once and earning the NFC’s top seed another time.