Former Lions physician explains mechanics of Jack Campbell neck injury

Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell remains hospitalized 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 with an apparent cervical spine issue. He stayed at a local hospital overnight for continued evaluation. The Lions head coach offered no status update after the divisional contest ended.

Solomon Cogan, founder of The Nerve & Disc Institute and a current member of the Detroit Tigers' medical staff, provided context on the injury. Cogan served on the Lions' medical team for 14 years before moving to the Tigers. He told FOX 2 that the immediate priority was assessing Campbell without moving him.

"If you move him immediately, that can make a smaller problem catastrophic," Cogan said. He noted that when a player is unconscious, doctors treat the situation as a potential cervical spine injury. The primary concern in such cases is the possibility of permanent paralysis.

Cogan explained that the neck has a natural C-shaped curve designed to act as a shock absorber. The NFL banned spearing because bending the neck forward or straightening it creates axial compression on the spine. This position increases the risk of severe injury. When a player's neck is up, the anatomy allows for more places to bend during an impact.

The physician referenced Jayden Reed's injury earlier in the season, where the player's head was dropped down during the impact, causing a severe outcome. Campbell's head was in a more neutral position during the play. Cogan said this positioning could point toward a better outcome, though risk remains. Treatment options vary widely depending on the severity of the damage.

The Lions may provide an official update during a press conference scheduled for Monday. Campbell was last reported to be recovering in the hospital.