The Detroit Lions’ linebacker unit has quietly evolved into one of the NFL’s elite, fueled by the powerful duo of Jack Campbell and Alex Anzalone.

Detroit’s defense is fast, disciplined, and dominating against both the run and the pass. And as defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard explains, it all stems from his two anchors in the middle — a veteran tactician and a young star building their own Batman-and-Robin legacy.

Jack Campbell’s Rise to Command

At just 25, Jack Campbell has taken over defensive control duties, literally. In his third season with the Lions, the former first-rounder now carries the green dot, meaning he’s the one communicating defensive plays to the rest of the team.

It’s a major responsibility, but Sheppard says Campbell’s sharp mind and relentless drive to learn are what separate him from the pack.

“It’s uncommon to see a player capable of calling a game,” Sheppard told Lions OnSI. “When most players hit a certain level, they ease off. But Jack? He wants to understand everything — why a play works, why we adjust. That’s what sets him apart.”

Sheppard even drew parallels between Campbell and some of football’s Hall of Fame linebackers such as Brian Urlacher, Ray Lewis, and Luke Kuechly.

“You’re starting to see him reach that tier,” Sheppard added. “Players who can adapt mid-game, coach on the field — those are the elite ones. And we’re fortunate to have two of them.”

Alex Anzalone: The Steady Mentor

While Campbell’s career is just taking off, Alex Anzalone, 31, provides the experienced leadership that stabilizes the group. Now in his fifth Lions season and ninth in the league, Anzalone’s poise and consistency have become essential to Detroit’s defensive foundation.

Sheppard credited Anzalone as the perfect counterpart to Campbell — a mentor, communicator, and on-field extension of the coaching staff.

“It’s not all Jack,” Sheppard noted. “Alex has been at this for years. Sometimes Jack glances over, and Anzo just gives him that look — ‘Yeah.’ It’s like Batman and Robin. When things get wild, they calm everyone down and keep us locked in.”

That connection has turned Detroit’s defense into one of the most synchronized groups in the NFL. When chaos arrives, Campbell and Anzalone bring order — reinforcing the coaches’ vision and setting the tone for everyone else.

Detroit’s linebackers have become the soul of the defense, and with Campbell and Anzalone leading the charge, the Lions appear built to maintain their excellence all year.

They’re not loud or flashy. But like Batman and Robin, they always show up when needed most — saving the day, one crucial stop at a time.