NFL
Jan 1, 2026
Here’s the clear answer, plus how the Lions linebacker and head coach are connected (and how they’re not). Photo by: The SportsRush
Jack Campbell and Dan Campbell aren't related, even though they share a last name.
People often wonder if they're family since they're both with the Detroit Lions, but they're not.
I get why people are confused. Here's what's causing it:
Same last name (Campbell)
Same team (Detroit Lions)
Jack's draft happened during Dan's time as head coach.
A hard-nosed, physical style of football.
It's just a coincidence.

The Lions picked Jack Campbell, a linebacker, in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft.
Position: Linebacker
College: Iowa
Known for: Tackling, instincts, leadership
Drafted by: Detroit Lions
People see him as a key defensive player for Detroit.

Dan Campbell coaches the Detroit Lions. They hired him in 2021.
Former NFL tight end
Known for: Aggressive coaching style, leadership, culture-building
Nickname: “Motor City Dan Campbell”
Most people agree that he played a big part in making the Lions a team that could really compete.
Only professionally.
Connection Type | Status |
|---|---|
Family relation | No |
Same NFL team | Yes |
Coach-player relationship | Yes |
Draft influence | Possible (organizational decision) |
Dan Campbell coached Jack Campbell, but he didn't pick a relative in the draft.
Why the sudden interest in whether Jack and Dan Campbell are related?
Here's what's going on:
Fans keep hearing Campbell during games.
The media mentions both names a lot.
Detroit's doing better, so the team's getting more attention.
Same last names + winning = online mix-ups.
So, are they related? Nope.
They just:
Have the same last name.
Work for the same football team.
Embody that tough football vibe.
That's all there is to it.