Report: Lions decline LB Jack Campbell's fifth-year option

The Lions reportedly made a split decision with their 2023 first-round draft selections, picking up running back Jahmyr Gibbs' fifth-year option but not All-Pro linebacker Jack Campbell's.

Fox 2 Detroit broke the news Tuesday night and a source confirmed the information to ESPN.

Gibbs will earn a guaranteed $14.29 million for the 2027 season. Campbell's option would have paid him an estimated $21.925 million, which is more than the league's highest-paid off-ball linebacker, per ESPN.

ESPN reported that the Lions want to bring Campbell back on a long-term extension, as well as Gibbs. Tight end Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch, also are due for extensions. Since they were not first-round picks, the Lions do not need to sign them to extensions immediately.

Gibbs, 24, made the decision a no-brainer by racking up 5,029 yards from scrimmage with 49 touchdowns in 49 games (24 starts) across his first three seasons, earning three straight Pro Bowl selections.

Campbell, 25, earned All-Pro first-team and Pro Bowl honors last season with career highs in tackles (176), sacks (five) and forced fumbles (three) in 17 starts. He has 402 tackles and 8.5 sacks through 51 games (46 starts).

The Lions took Gibbs with the 12th overall pick and Campbell with the 18th selection in the 2023 NFL Draft.

--Field Level Media