The Philadelphia Eagles select Jihaad Campbell in the NFL Draft after his standout seasons at Alabama, where he started most games in 2023 and 2024.

In a pivotal move during the 2025 NFL Draft, the Philadelphia Eagles selected Jihaad Campbell, a standout linebacker from the University of Alabama, to bolster their defensive unit. After spending three impactful seasons with the Crimson Tide and starting the majority of games in both the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Campbell’s selection marks a significant investment by the Eagles in both immediate production and long-term upside.

This draft decision comes at a time when Philadelphia is looking to inject youth, athleticism, and versatility into its linebacker corps—especially following concerns about depth and injuries. With Nakobe Dean expected to miss time during the upcoming season, Jihaad Campbell’s arrival is timely and potentially transformative for the Eagles’ defense.

Jihaad Campbell’s Road to the NFL

Jihaad Campbell entered the collegiate scene as one of the most coveted high school prospects in the nation. Originally from Erial, New Jersey, Campbell was a consensus five-star recruit who began his high school career at Timber Creek before transferring to IMG Academy in Florida. At IMG, he gained national attention for his versatility, playing edge rusher, linebacker, and even occasionally dropping into coverage.

His athletic profile and adaptability caught the attention of top programs across the country, but Campbell ultimately committed to Nick Saban’s Alabama—a powerhouse in developing NFL-ready defenders.

Alabama Career Overview

Campbell’s freshman year in 2022 was a period of adjustment, primarily learning the complexities of Alabama’s pro-style defense and contributing on special teams. However, by the 2023 season, he had become a central figure on the Crimson Tide defense. He started the majority of the games that season, finishing with 66 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and 2 sacks, along with an interception that highlighted his range and awareness.

In 2024, Campbell took a major leap. He led the team in tackles (117), notched 12 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, and defended 3 passes. He earned First-Team All-SEC honors and was a semifinalist for both the Butkus Award (best linebacker) and the Chuck Bednarik Award (best defensive player). He showed a rare blend of sideline-to-sideline speed, power, and the ability to drop into coverage effectively.

Strengths in Campbell’s Game

1. Athleticism and Speed:
One of Campbell’s most obvious traits is his elite athleticism. At 6-foot-3, 244 pounds, he moves with the quickness of a safety but hits like a middle linebacker. His ability to cover tight ends and running backs downfield makes him a valuable piece in today’s pass-heavy NFL.

2. Versatility:
Campbell is the type of linebacker who can line up at multiple positions. Whether as an inside linebacker in a 3-4, an outside backer in a 4-3, or even on the edge in certain blitz packages, his versatility provides defensive coordinators with endless options.

3. Pass Rush Upside:
Though primarily a linebacker, Campbell’s experience at edge rusher in high school and his ability to time blitzes make him dangerous as a pass rusher. He uses his long arms and agility to maneuver past linemen and pressure quarterbacks.

4. Coverage Ability:
What separates Campbell from many of his linebacker peers in the draft is his prowess in pass coverage. His fluid hips and change-of-direction skills allow him to stay with receivers downfield—a trait that is highly valued in today’s defensive schemes.

5. Physicality and Tackling Technique:
Campbell is a strong tackler who rarely whiffs. He wraps up well, uses leverage effectively, and can take down ball carriers without needing assistance.

Areas for Growth

1. Play Recognition and Instincts:
While Campbell’s athleticism is elite, he can occasionally be late in diagnosing plays. NFL offenses are more complex and faster-paced, so improving his ability to read keys and make quicker decisions will be crucial.

2. Shedding Blocks:
Though strong, Campbell can occasionally get locked up by offensive linemen at the second level. Developing better hand usage and disengagement techniques will be important to reach his full potential.

3. Discipline in Zone Coverage:
At times, Campbell has over-pursued or vacated his zone too early. Cleaning up these mental lapses will help him become a more consistent force in coverage.

Fit With the Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles’ decision to select Campbell was influenced by multiple factors:

• Need for Athleticism at Linebacker: Philadelphia’s defense has long leaned on its front four, but modern offenses have exposed the need for rangy linebackers who can both cover and blitz. Campbell fits that mold perfectly.
• Vic Fangio’s Influence: Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, known for his innovative schemes and emphasis on versatility, reportedly played a role in identifying Campbell as a top target. Fangio loves linebackers who can be moved around the formation and disguised in coverage or pressure packages.
• Depth Concerns: With injuries and rotational gaps looming, especially with Nakobe Dean sidelined, Campbell provides both immediate depth and the potential to develop into a full-time starter.
• Special Teams Value: Early in his NFL career, Campbell will likely contribute significantly on special teams, where his speed and tackling ability can shine.

Comparison to Other NFL Players

Many analysts compare Jihaad Campbell to players like:

• Roquan Smith (Ravens): In terms of leadership potential and tackling production.
• Devin White (Buccaneers): Due to his explosiveness and downhill style.
• Fred Warner (49ers): For his ability to cover ground and thrive in coverage.

While Campbell still has development ahead of him to reach that level, the physical and mental framework is there.

What’s Next for Jihaad Campbell?

Campbell is expected to participate in offseason workouts, rookie minicamp, and training camp in Philadelphia. There’s potential for him to carve out a starting role early depending on health and competition in the linebacker room. The Eagles will likely bring him along gradually, but fans can expect to see him on the field often during his rookie year—either on defense or special teams.

His long-term trajectory will depend on his ability to master the mental side of the game. If he can combine his elite athletic traits with sharper instincts and improved play diagnosis, he has Pro Bowl potential.

Final Thoughts

Jihaad Campbell’s selection by the Philadelphia Eagles is not only a smart investment in a high-upside defender but also a statement about the team’s long-term vision. They’re banking on his elite athleticism, versatility, and untapped potential to become a cornerstone of their defense. With the right coaching, patience, and development, Campbell could emerge as one of the biggest steals of the 2025 NFL Draft.

For Campbell, it’s the next chapter in a football journey that began in New Jersey and took him to Tuscaloosa, and now to one of the NFL’s most passionate football cities—Philadelphia. The city’s demanding fanbase will expect greatness, but if his college career is any indicator, Jihaad Campbell is ready to rise to the occasion.