A starting linebacker for the Detroit Lions has been recognized as a player who could rise to become the league’s best at his position during the 2025 NFL season.

The Detroit Lions’ defense struggled to close out the 2024 NFL season.

Injuries mounted as the year went on, and they were overwhelmed by the Buffalo Bills late in the year, then by the Washington Commanders in the postseason, ending their playoff run.

Looking ahead to 2025, the defense is expected to bounce back as key players return from injury and younger starters continue to grow and improve.

In a recent piece, Wasserman identified Lions linebacker Jack Campbell as someone with the potential to become the best at his position in the NFL.

Campbell made a strong first impression after being selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Lions.

He earned a starting role in his rookie year and racked up 95 total tackles, including five tackles for loss, making an early impact.

Campbell played an even more significant role in the Lions’ defense in 2024. He started every game and totaled 131 tackles, including five tackles for loss again. He also recorded five pass breakups and forced one fumble.

With Derrick Barnes healthy and back on the roster in 2025, the linebacker unit will be at full strength, which could help elevate Campbell’s performance even more.

Detroit has to be pleased with what they’ve seen from the 18th overall pick in 2023, and 2025 may bring even greater returns on that investment.