Lions make multiple linebacker moves after Jack Campbell’s injury

The Detroit Lions are reshaping their linebacker room after a frightening injury to Jack Campbell, making several roster moves to strengthen their defensive depth.MORE: Dan Campbell shares optimistic update on Jack Campbell’s conditionDetroit announced Wednesday that it signed K.J. Britt from the New England Patriots’ practice squad and added Joe Bachie to its active roster from its own practice squad. The Lions also signed linebacker Owen Pappoe to their practice squad.The moves come after Campbell suffered a serious neck injury during Sunday’s 19-15 victory over the Minnesota Vikings. He was taken to a hospital for evaluation after being injured while making a tackle in the fourth quarter.Lions Add K.J. Britt and Joe Bachie to Linebacker DepthLions announce roster moves:Signed LB K.J. Britt to the Active Roster from the NE Practice Squad.Signed LB Joe Bachie to the Active Roster from the Practice Squad.Signed LB Owen Pappoe to the Practice Squad. pic.twitter.com/dVAGzdW89e— Detroit Lions (@Lions) November 4, 2026Campbell provided an encouraging personal update Wednesday, saying he has full movement in his lower body and is making progress with movement in his upper body. He also acknowledged that he still has work ahead of him as he continues recovering. His update was shared by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.Losing Campbell leaves a significant hole in Detroit’s defense. The linebacker is a team captain and an important presence in the middle of the unit, making his absence difficult to replace.Britt brings NFL experience to the group. The 27-year-old appeared in one game for New England this season and played all 17 games for Miami in 2025, recording 35 tackles. He has also made 16 career starts.Bachie offers familiarity with Detroit’s system. The 28-year-old has already appeared in two games for the Lions this season, primarily contributing on special teams. His move to the active roster gives the coaching staff another experienced option.Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell (46) on the sidelines during action against the Jacksonville Jaguars Saturday, August 19, 2023. Credit: USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect (Reuters)Pappoe adds another layer of depth. The former Arizona Cardinals draft pick appeared in 49 games for the franchise over three seasons, primarily contributing on special teams.Detroit is also dealing with the loss of rookie linebacker Jimmy Rolder, who was placed on injured reserve with a significant hamstring injury.The Lions will need their remaining linebackers to step up as they prepare for their upcoming matchup against the Miami Dolphins. Campbell’s recovery remains the biggest concern, but these roster moves give Detroit additional options while its defensive captain works toward getting healthy.—Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter—