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Why the Lions declined fifth-year option of All-Pro linebacker Jack Campbell, and what happens next
TL;DR
The Detroit Lions declined the fifth-year option for All-Pro linebacker Jack Campbell, despite his impressive performance last season. This decision has raised eyebrows given his accolades, including a Pro Bowl selection and the Butkus Award.
Key points
- Lions declined fifth-year option for Jack Campbell
- Campbell had a career year with 176 combined tackles
- He was named first-team All-Pro and won the Butkus Award
- Decision surprised many given his accolades
- Implications include potential free agency for Campbell
Detroit LionsJack CampbellNFL
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Last Friday marked the NFL's deadline for teams to pick up the fifth-year options on the rookie contracts of the first-round picks from 2023. A total of 20 players had their options exercised, two others received long-term extensions, and nine players had their options declined. One of the more notable players that had their fifth-year option declined was Detroit Lions star linebacker Jack Campbell.
Campbell is coming off a career year, in which he recorded 176 combined tackles, nine tackles for loss, five sacks, three forced fumbles and four passes defended. He was named a first-team All-Pro, earned his first Pro Bowl bid, and was the winner of the Butkus Award among professionals as the top linebacker in the NFL. So, the Lions making this decision was surprising to some.
Below, we will break down why the Lions declined Campbell's fifth-year option, and what happens next for the former No. 18 overall pick. Let's start with the "why."
Why Detroit declined the option
The fifth-year option is a one-year, fully guaranteed salary for the fifth season of a first-round pick. The money included in that one year is based on several criteria, including position. If a player makes multiple Pro Bowls over their first three NFL seasons, they will make a considerable chunk of change. They will receive a base salary which is equal to the franchise tender at their position, according to Over The Cap. If a player makes one Pro Bowl, they will make what is equal to the transition tender at their position.
Then there's the "playtime" qualifier, and the "basic" structure. "Playtime" is based on snap counts over three seasons, while basic is reserved for all of the players that don't meet any of the criteria, such as Indianapolis Colts quarterback and defensive end .
Q&A
Why did the Detroit Lions decline Jack Campbell's fifth-year option?
The Lions declined Jack Campbell's fifth-year option despite his strong performance, but specific reasons for the decision have yet to be detailed.
What were Jack Campbell's stats last season?
Last season, Jack Campbell recorded 176 combined tackles, nine tackles for loss, five sacks, three forced fumbles, and four passes defended.
What awards did Jack Campbell win in his career?
Jack Campbell was named a first-team All-Pro, earned his first Pro Bowl bid, and won the Butkus Award as the top linebacker in the NFL.
What are the implications of declining a fifth-year option for a player?
Declining a fifth-year option means the player will become a free agent after their rookie contract ends, impacting their future contract negotiations and team dynamics.
