Jack Campbell reports full leg movement after neck injury, doctors explain recovery prospects

Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell announced on Nov. 4 that he has regained full movement in his legs but is still working to restore arm function after a neck injury sustained during a game against the Minnesota Vikings on Nov. 1. Campbell thanked the medical teams at Henry Ford Hospital and the Lions for their care.

"I’m incredibly encouraged by the progress I’ve made in such a short period of time," Campbell said.

Head coach Dan Campbell said the team’s positive thoughts and prayers have helped the player’s morale. Medical specialists consulted by USA TODAY Sports described the injury as central cord syndrome, a type of incomplete spinal-cord injury that often affects arm function more than leg function.

Dr. Darryl Lau, director of spinal neurosurgery research at NYU Langone’s Spine Center, said the spinal cord appears to be intact and noted that Campbell’s youth and professional conditioning improve his odds of recovery.

Dr. Betsy Grunch, a neurosurgeon based in Georgia, explained that the hyperextension of Campbell’s neck during the collision likely caused swelling that impacted the central portion of the cord, leading to greater motor loss in the arms.

Both doctors said the prognosis is cautiously optimistic but emphasized that a full return to play cannot be confirmed without imaging studies. Lau mentioned that spinal shock and the specific pattern of nerve fiber placement in the cord can result in rapid leg recovery while arm function lags.

"It’s almost like a stinger," Lau said, adding that the injury could also be classified as central cord syndrome.

Recovery is expected to be lengthy, with uncertainties around balance, coordination and the need for possible surgery. Grunch called the early signs encouraging but said the timeline for returning to the field remains undetermined.