Why Notre Dame coaches are comparing Charles Jagusah to top-5 NFL Draft pick Will Campbell
In college football, comparisons between rising stars and established NFL talents are common, helping fans and scouts gauge a player’s potential and style. Recently, Notre Dame coaches have drawn a striking parallel between one of their brightest prospects, Charles Jagusah, and former top-5 NFL Draft pick Will Campbell. This comparison is no small compliment — it signals a belief that Jagusah possesses the rare combination of skills and traits that can elevate him to elite status both at the collegiate and professional levels.
But what exactly about Jagusah’s game reminds coaches of Campbell? And how might this comparison influence Jagusah’s development and draft prospects? In this article, we explore the reasons behind Notre Dame’s high praise, breaking down the similarities in playing style, physical attributes, and intangibles that link these two exceptional athletes.
Who is Will Campbell?
To understand the weight of this comparison, it’s important to appreciate who Will Campbell is. Campbell was an elite offensive tackle who played college football at LSU before being selected in the top 5 of the NFL Draft. Known for his remarkable blend of size, strength, and athleticism, Campbell was considered a generational talent with the ability to dominate defensive linemen.
Campbell’s traits include:
- Elite Physical Tools: At around 6-foot-5 and over 300 pounds, Campbell combined massive size with quick feet and hand technique.
- Versatility: Campbell showed the ability to play multiple positions along the offensive line, including tackle and guard.
- Technique and Intelligence: Beyond physicality, Campbell excelled in understanding defensive schemes and adjusting on the fly.
- Work Ethic: Campbell was known for relentless practice habits and a competitive mindset, essential for success at the highest levels.
Campbell’s impact at LSU and his projected NFL success have made him a benchmark for young offensive linemen.
Charles Jagusah: A Rising Star at Notre Dame
Charles Jagusah is emerging as one of Notre Dame’s top offensive line prospects, garnering attention for his athleticism, technique, and leadership. Standing around 6-foot-6 and weighing close to 310 pounds, Jagusah has the prototypical size for an elite offensive tackle, but it’s his movement and football IQ that have made coaches take notice.
Key attributes of Jagusah’s game include:
- Athleticism: Jagusah possesses impressive quickness and agility for a man his size, allowing him to handle speedy edge rushers.
- Technical Skill: His hand placement, footwork, and balance have improved steadily, reflecting diligent coaching and personal dedication.
- Football Intelligence: Jagusah’s ability to read defenses and adjust blocking assignments on the fly mirrors traits seen in top NFL linemen.
- Competitive Drive: Coaches praise his intensity in practice and games, noting his leadership qualities and desire to improve.
This combination has led Notre Dame’s staff to draw comparisons between Jagusah and Will Campbell.
Physical and Technical Comparisons
- Size and Frame
Both Jagusah and Campbell possess imposing physical frames ideally suited for offensive tackle roles. Their height and weight provide the foundational strength needed to anchor against powerful defensive linemen while maintaining mobility.
- Athleticism and Movement
One of the standout reasons for the comparison is their similar athletic profiles. Campbell was notable for his ability to move laterally with surprising quickness and recover on outside pass rush moves. Jagusah displays comparable traits, combining nimble footwork with explosive initial bursts.
- Hand Technique and Leverage
Both players demonstrate advanced hand placement and leverage — crucial for controlling defenders at the line of scrimmage. Notre Dame coaches have pointed to Jagusah’s ability to punch effectively and maintain balance under pressure as reminiscent of Campbell’s polished technique.
- Versatility
Campbell’s capacity to shift across the line — from tackle to guard — offered LSU valuable flexibility. Notre Dame envisions Jagusah as similarly versatile, capable of playing multiple positions depending on team needs and matchups.
Intangibles: Leadership and Football IQ
While physical traits often grab headlines, the mental aspects of the game separate good players from great ones. Campbell was known for his ability to anticipate defensive moves, make quick decisions, and lead the offensive line. Notre Dame coaches see these same qualities in Jagusah.
- Pre-Snap Recognition: Jagusah’s ability to diagnose blitzes, stunts, and coverage adjustments before the snap is well beyond his years.
- Communication: He often directs teammates on blocking schemes and adjustments during plays, demonstrating leadership on the line.
- Work Ethic and Attitude: Coaches repeatedly highlight Jagusah’s dedication to film study, strength training, and technique refinement — traits that align with Campbell’s approach during his college career.
What This Comparison Means for Jagusah’s Future
Being likened to a player of Will Campbell’s caliber is both an honor and a challenge. It sets high expectations but also highlights the belief that Jagusah has the tools to reach the next level.
For Jagusah, this comparison could:
- Boost Confidence: Knowing that coaches see an elite player in him can fuel his motivation and commitment.
- Attract NFL Attention: Scouts often use such comparisons to project future success, potentially elevating Jagusah’s draft stock.
- Guide Development: Emulating Campbell’s path, including refining specific skills and mindset, can help Jagusah maximize his potential.
- Create Leadership Roles: Notre Dame may rely on Jagusah more heavily as a leader and anchor on the offensive line.
Challenges and Areas for Growth
No comparison is perfect, and Jagusah still has areas to improve before reaching Campbell’s level:
- Consistency: Jagusah needs to maintain his technique and focus throughout entire games.
- Strength: Building additional power to handle bull rushers and heavy defensive tackles will be critical.
- Experience: Gaining more live-game reps and facing varied competition will test and refine his skills.
- Injury Prevention: Staying healthy and durable is essential for a long, productive career.
Notre Dame’s coaching staff is committed to helping Jagusah address these challenges through personalized coaching and strength programs.
Historical Impact: Notre Dame’s Offensive Line Tradition
Notre Dame has a storied history of producing elite offensive linemen who succeed at the next level. Coaches comparing Jagusah to a player like Campbell — who has NFL first-round potential — signals Notre Dame’s intent to continue that legacy.
The program’s focus on developing technically sound, versatile linemen aligns well with Jagusah’s profile, making him a cornerstone for future success.
Fan and Media Reaction
Notre Dame fans and college football analysts have embraced the comparison with excitement. Social media buzzes with highlights of Jagusah’s play, drawing parallels to Campbell’s dominant college career.
Media outlets have begun to spotlight Jagusah as a player to watch in upcoming seasons, further raising expectations for his impact.
The comparison to Will Campbell places Charles Jagusah in elite company and sets a clear benchmark for his development. With the physical tools, technical skills, and mental acumen necessary to thrive at the highest levels, Jagusah is poised for a promising collegiate and potentially professional career.
Notre Dame coaches’ confidence in Jagusah’s abilities speaks volumes about his potential to become a dominant force on the offensive line. As he continues to grow, refine his game, and embrace leadership roles, Jagusah may well follow in Campbell’s footsteps — becoming not only a top player at Notre Dame but a high NFL Draft pick in the future.
