Unlike some of their defensive teammates, the Detroit Lions linebacker unit had a pretty healthy 2025 season. The question heading into 2026 will be if they can increase their big-play production to help compensate for the wounded secondary.
Here are the medical reports for the Lions LB starters. For the complete LB review including key contributors and backup contenders, visit Lions 2026 Training Camp Medical Preview: Linebackers.
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(Age at start of season in parentheses.) Click on player name for full medical report if available.
Jack Campbell (26)
Medical concern level: 1/10
Campbell had offseason hip surgery in 2025. He then went on to to play all 17 games in 2026. This offseason, he was named 1st-team All-Pro, signed a 4-year, $81M extension, and welcomed a newborn baby…
In his three years with the Lions, he has yet to miss a game. With his excellent family planning, labor and delivery won’t cause a missed game in 2026.
OUTLOOK: Expect continued reliability and solid production out of Jack Campbell. The hope for 2026 is he can add a few more splash plays to his statline. Last year, he had 0 interceptions, 3 forced fumbles, and 5 sacks.
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Derrick Barnes (26)
Medical concern level: 2/10
Barnes had a surgical MCL/PCL in 2024. He rebounded to have a reliable 2025 season by playing in all 17 games, but it was a bit disappointing from a production and playmaking standpoint (1 INT, 0 forced fumbles, 4 sacks). It’s possible he was limited by knee residuals.
OUTLOOK: Barnes is still firmly entrenched as a starter. Hopefully, being another year removed from his serious knee injury will allow him to be more impactful.
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This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Detroit Lions Training Camp Medical Injury Preview: Starting LB’s
