6 Bold Predictions For The Detroit Lions In 2023
By Hunter Haas
Bold Predictions Continued
No. 4: Jack Campbell Wins Defensive Rookie Of The Year
The Lions surprised many by selecting a pure middle linebacker prospect at No. 18 overall. I was not among the shocked, however. Jack Campbell finished the pre-draft process with a sparkling first-round grade on my Big Board. Ranking inside the top 20 prospects overall, I immediately loved the pairing of Campbell with Detroit.
The Iowa defender is the type of leader a defensive coordinator dreams of when assembling a unit. Campbell is a passionate leader, fiery competitor, athletic marvel, and brilliant mind; the makings of a modern-day MIKE in the NFL. With the Hawkeyes, Campbell patrolled the middle of the defense and impacted the game in coverage, run support, and even as a pass rusher.
Expect defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn to stick him on the starting unit from the jump. Few players are capable of single-handedly transforming a group the way Campbell can. At 6-foot-5 and 249 pounds, the Lions have a future All-Pro quarterbacking the defense for the next decade-plus.
Starting his career with a Defensive Rookie of the Year trophy may be the boldest of bold predictions, but it is the one I am most confident in coming to fruition.