Lions captain hospitalized after neck injury

Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell remains in a local hospital after suffering a neck injury during Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings.

The team captain was carted off the field early in the fourth quarter. He stayed in the hospital overnight into Monday for continued evaluation. A team update is expected during Campbell's press conference later today.

Solomon Cogan, a former Lions medical staff member who now works with the Detroit Tigers, discussed the injury mechanics on FOX 2. Cogan, who served with the Lions for 14 years, identified the brain and spinal cord as the primary areas of concern. Trainers assessed Campbell on the field without moving him. Cogan noted that immediate movement could turn a smaller problem into a catastrophic one.

Doctors treat unconscious players as if they have a cervical spine injury. The greatest fear is permanent paralysis. Cogan explained that the neck's natural C-shaped curve acts as a shock absorber. This anatomy is why the NFL banned spearing. When a neck is bent forward or straight, axial compression hits the spine, increasing the risk of severe damage. If the neck is up, it has more places to bend during impact.

Cogan compared Campbell's position to Jayden Reed's injury earlier this season. Reed's head dropped down during impact, leading to a severe outcome. Campbell's head was in a more neutral position during Sunday's play. This positioning could point toward a better result, though risk remains. The Lions head coach offered no status update after the divisional game ended. Hours later, the team confirmed Campbell would remain in the hospital for further checks.