Where is Jihaad Campbell expected to go in the NFL draft? Recent mock selections for 2025 as Alabama football’s Pro Day draws closer.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, one name that has been garnering increasing attention is Jihaad Campbell, the standout linebacker from Alabama football. Known for his explosive athleticism, defensive instincts, and high football IQ, Campbell has become a key figure in Alabama’s defensive unit. With the Crimson Tide’s Pro Day just around the corner, scouts, analysts, and fans alike are keeping a close eye on his potential draft stock. Will he be a first-round pick? Or is he a sleeper destined for the later rounds? In this article, we’ll explore where Jihaad Campbell is expected to go in the NFL Draft, focusing on recent mock selections, his draft prospects, and what makes him one of the most intriguing defensive prospects in the 2025 class.

Jihaad Campbell’s College Career: The Path to the NFL

Jihaad Campbell’s journey to becoming one of the top NFL draft prospects in 2025 has been a testament to his hard work, natural talent, and the reputation of Alabama football’s elite development system. Standing at 6’2” and weighing in at around 240 pounds, Campbell has the physical attributes of a prototypical NFL linebacker. However, it is his combination of athleticism, intelligence, and leadership that has captured the attention of scouts.

Campbell’s career at Alabama was marked by steady development. As a highly-touted recruit, he arrived in Tuscaloosa with high expectations, but his work ethic and commitment to improvement helped him not only earn significant playing time but also become one of the pillars of the defense. His ability to read offenses, tackle in space, and cover sideline to sideline made him a valuable asset to the Crimson Tide’s defensive scheme.

In 2024, Campbell’s performance reached new heights, as he became one of the most consistent and dynamic linebackers in college football. His stats from the 2024 season were impressive: over 90 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, and a handful of pass breakups. He was instrumental in Alabama’s defensive success and played a critical role in several key wins, including their victories over top-ranked SEC opponents.

His versatility, which allowed him to excel as both an inside linebacker and an outside rusher, made him a unique prospect. Whether it was in pass coverage or blitzing the quarterback, Campbell showcased the type of all-around skills that NFL teams crave in modern linebackers.

What Makes Jihaad Campbell an Intriguing NFL Prospect?

Jihaad Campbell’s skill set makes him one of the more intriguing linebacker prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. Here are some key attributes that set him apart:

1. Physical Attributes

Standing at 6’2” and weighing in at 240 pounds, Campbell has the ideal size and frame for an NFL linebacker. His build allows him to excel in both run defense and pass coverage. His ability to move sideline to sideline is a testament to his natural athleticism. He’s quick, agile, and possesses a combination of strength and speed that is coveted by NFL scouts.

2. Football IQ and Instincts

Campbell’s football IQ is one of his greatest strengths. He has a natural ability to read offenses and anticipate plays before they unfold. Whether it’s diagnosing a run play or recognizing a pass route, Campbell’s mental acumen allows him to react quickly and make game-changing plays. This skill is particularly valuable in today’s NFL, where linebackers are required to have a comprehensive understanding of the game, both mentally and physically.

3. Versatility

Perhaps Campbell’s most intriguing attribute is his versatility. In college, he played in multiple defensive schemes, showcasing his ability to perform both as an inside linebacker and as an edge rusher. His capacity to contribute in various roles gives NFL teams the flexibility to use him in different ways, making him a valuable commodity for any defense. His pass-rushing skills, combined with his ability to drop into coverage, make him a well-rounded linebacker capable of excelling in multiple phases of the game.

4. Leadership and Work Ethic

During his time at Alabama, Campbell was widely regarded as a leader on the field and in the locker room. His work ethic was often praised by his coaches and teammates, with many citing his commitment to improvement as a driving force behind his development. As NFL teams look for players who not only bring talent but also leadership qualities, Campbell’s attitude and approach to the game are seen as significant assets.

Recent Mock Draft Selections: Where Will Jihaad Campbell Go?

As the 2025 NFL Draft draws closer, the buzz around Jihaad Campbell’s draft stock continues to build. While it’s still early, several prominent draft analysts and experts have begun to offer their predictions on where Campbell might be selected. Let’s take a look at some recent mock draft selections and what they say about his potential landing spots.

First Round Projections

Jihaad Campbell’s physical attributes, combined with his impressive college career, have earned him the attention of analysts who believe he could be a first-round pick. In particular, his combination of size, speed, and versatility has led some experts to project him as a late first-round selection.

Mock Projection #1: One prominent mock draft by Todd McShay of ESPN places Campbell at the 28th overall pick to the Buffalo Bills. McShay notes that Buffalo’s defense has been solid in recent years, but the team could use a dynamic, versatile linebacker who can both rush the passer and defend the run. Campbell’s ability to excel in multiple roles would fit in well with Buffalo’s defense, and his leadership would add a layer of toughness to the linebacker corps. McShay believes Campbell’s ability to make an immediate impact on both defense and special teams could make him a valuable asset for a playoff-caliber team like the Bills.

Mock Projection #2: Another highly respected draft analyst, Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Network, has Campbell going at Pick 24 to the Minnesota Vikings. Jeremiah suggests that Minnesota, a team in need of an upgrade to its defense, could see Campbell as a versatile option capable of playing multiple linebacker positions. With the Vikings’ defense needing to keep pace in a competitive NFC North, Campbell’s versatility to play inside or outside linebacker could make him a perfect fit for Minnesota’s scheme.

Second Round Projections

If Campbell doesn’t go in the first round, several mocks have him falling into the second round, where his talent would still be highly sought after. Despite some competition at linebacker in this class, his blend of athleticism and football intelligence would still make him a standout in the second round.

Mock Projection #3: In Chris Trapasso’s mock draft, Campbell is slotted to go early in the second round, at Pick 41, to the Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals, who are in the midst of a rebuild, would benefit from adding Campbell’s athleticism and leadership to a young defense. Trapasso highlights Campbell’s versatility as a key reason why Arizona would be interested, as the Cardinals could use him in different defensive packages to maximize his strengths.

Mock Projection #4: A recent mock from PFF (Pro Football Focus) has Campbell falling slightly further, going at Pick 48 to the Cleveland Browns. The Browns have a solid defensive unit but have lacked the kind of dynamic playmaker in the middle of the field that Campbell could provide. PFF notes that Campbell’s ability to cover running backs and tight ends in the passing game, combined with his prowess in the run game, would make him an ideal fit for the Browns’ defense.

Third Round and Beyond: A Potential Steal

While many expect Campbell to go in the first or second round, some mocks have him falling to the third round, where he could be a steal for a team in need of a versatile linebacker. In particular, teams with established defenses that are looking to add a younger player with upside could be in play for Campbell if he falls into the third round.

Mock Projection #5: In Mark Schofield’s mock draft, Campbell is taken in the third round, at Pick 76, by the Miami Dolphins. Schofield mentions that Miami’s defense is on the rise, and adding a player like Campbell, who could play multiple linebacker spots and provide a spark as a pass rusher, would be a valuable addition. The Dolphins are a team on the cusp of making a deep playoff run, and Campbell could be the type of player who elevates their defense to the next level.

What Does Jihaad Campbell Bring to an NFL Team?

Whether Campbell is selected in the first round, the second, or even the third, one thing is certain: he has the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL. His combination of size, speed, and versatility makes him an ideal fit for today’s NFL, where linebackers are required to excel in coverage, rush the passer, and defend the run.

Campbell’s leadership and football IQ are also key factors that will contribute to his success at the next level. Teams are always looking for players who can make plays on the field but also contribute to the culture of the locker room. Campbell’s leadership at Alabama, combined with his ability to adapt to different defensive schemes, will make him an attractive option for any NFL team looking to strengthen their defense.