When the Detroit Lions picked Caleb Campbell out of Army in the seventh round of this year’s draft, he and the team thought Campbell would have the opportunity to play in the NFL this year, rather than serve in active duty like most of his fellow West Point graduates.

But that might not be the case. Rick Gosselin of the Dallas Morning News is reporting that the Army is reviewing its interpretation of the policy allowing academy graduates to gain early release from their active duty service obligations.

Under the interpretation currently used, the Army says Campbell could be released from his active duty obligations if he serves 24 months as a recruiter in the Detroit area while a member of the Lions’ roster. But that interpretation could change.

“That’s where the rub is,” Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Anne Edgecomb tells Gosselin. “What is 24 months of active service?“

Apparently there is some question within the Department of Defense about whether helping out with recruiting while playing for the Lions would constitute active service. It is not clear when the final interpretation of the policy as it affects Campbell — and a couple of Army players who signed as undrafted free agents — will be decided.

If Campbell is cut from the Lions during training camp, this becomes a moot point: He would definitely have to serve in active duty if he’s not on an NFL team. But even if he makes the Lions, the Army might not let him play.