Dan Campbell shares injury update on Rookie Jimmy Rolder

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Dan Campbell shares injury update on Rookie Jimmy Rolder

Originally posted on DetroitLionsCommunity
By Utsav Sinha | Last updated Aug 4, 2026 12:39 PM ET

The start of training camp often brings unexpected challenges, and rookie linebacker Jimmy Rolder is already dealing with one. Now, the team has revealed what is going on behind the scenes.

Lions head coach Dan Campbell shared an update on Rolder during his August 3 training camp media availability. The biggest takeaway from the coach’s statement is that the young defender will miss some time.

“Rolder will be out for a while, got a hamstring. Kitselman will be out for a while. Derrick Moore, we’re hoping kind of seven-to-ten days here. Just kind of a minor strain, which is good news. It’s unfortunate for all the rookies,” Campbell said.

According to a Sports Illustrated report, Campbell addressed reporters to share this injury update. This update was provided right before the Lions took the field for their first padded practice.

He further added, “These reps are valuable, man, you miss valuable, valuable time. But it also is what it is. The good news is, like we said with Derrick, it won’t be too long. For Rolder, it’s a little unfortunate, but it’s not a season-ender, so that’s good news.”

Campbell clarified that the specific issue is a hamstring injury. The most positive part of the update is that this is not season-ending.

The injury happened during the July 31 training camp practice. The linebacker had to leave the field early to be evaluated by the medical staff. Right now, there is no recovery timeline announced by the team.

The coach described the upcoming absence as being “out for a while”. Hamstring injuries can be tricky, and they often vary widely in recovery time.

Rolder was the number 118 overall pick in the draft. Coming into camp, he was expected to contribute mainly on special teams.

What the injury means for the linebacker depth

Campbell stressed that training camp reps are crucial for young players. Missing practice right now slows down the entire learning curve. It also delays their ability to learn special teams responsibilities.

Despite the unexpected setback, the middle of the defense remains very stable. Jack Campbell and Derrick Barnes remain the expected starters for the upcoming season.

Meanwhile, Malcolm Rodriguez and several other veterans are continuing to compete for the remaining snaps.

The Lions signed veteran linebacker Devin White shortly after the Rolder went down, as reported by the Detroit Free Press. White gives Detroit an option while they wait for their draft pick to recover.

Derrick Moore is expected back in around seven to ten days after dealing with a minor strain. Rookie tight end Miles Kitselman is also expected to miss time moving forward.

Thankfully, offensive tackle Blake Miller was expected to return to practice without any major concern.

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