Jihaad Campbell, an Alabama linebacker, is selected by the Eagles at No. 31 in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

In the high-stakes drama of the NFL Draft, where the hopes and dreams of future gridiron stars collide, one name that rose to prominence in 2025 was Jihaad Campbell. With his selection at No. 31 overall by the Philadelphia Eagles, the linebacker from Alabama found himself on the verge of a potential NFL career that could redefine the Eagles’ defense for years to come. Campbell’s journey, skill set, and the impact he is likely to have in the NFL are all aspects that deserve attention, as they reflect the traits that make him an exciting pick for the Eagles.

Jihaad Campbell’s name had been gaining traction ever since his standout performances at Alabama, a program that is no stranger to producing elite talent at virtually every position on the field. A linebacker with raw athleticism, sharp football instincts, and a relentless motor, Campbell quickly became one of the most talked-about defensive prospects in the nation during his time with the Crimson Tide.

Originally from the state of Georgia, Campbell was recruited to Alabama as a highly rated recruit, attracting attention with his exceptional blend of size, speed, and versatility. At 6’3″ and 240 pounds, Campbell possessed the frame of an ideal NFL linebacker, and over time, he has polished his craft to become a force against both the run and the pass. His ability to cover ground quickly while remaining a powerful presence at the line of scrimmage was evident throughout his college career, and it’s this combination of traits that made him an intriguing prospect heading into the draft.

During his tenure with Alabama, Campbell played in multiple schemes and under various defensive coordinators, giving him a well-rounded understanding of different defensive systems. His versatility, along with his intelligence on the field, made him a leader among his peers, and his leadership skills were one of the key factors that endeared him to scouts and analysts alike.

Campbell’s college career was one marked by consistent improvement. In his early years at Alabama, he was known for his impressive athleticism but was somewhat raw in his approach to the game. However, as he matured in the Alabama program, particularly under Nick Saban, he refined his technique, developed his awareness, and grew into one of the most complete linebackers in college football.

In his junior year, Campbell’s performance reached new heights. He totaled 85 tackles, including 15 for a loss, along with 6 sacks and 2 interceptions. These statistics highlighted his ability to make plays in multiple facets of the game. Whether it was tracking down a ball carrier in the backfield or dropping back into coverage, Campbell displayed an all-around skill set that few linebackers in college football could replicate.

What made Campbell stand out even more was his consistency in big games. He excelled in Alabama’s toughest matchups, including against top-ranked teams in the SEC. His play in high-pressure situations showcased his mental toughness and ability to perform when the spotlight was brightest. Scouts were particularly impressed by his intelligence, as Campbell frequently showed the ability to diagnose plays before they unfolded, a quality that is invaluable for an NFL linebacker.

Perhaps one of the most striking aspects of Campbell’s game was his ability to cover the middle of the field, something that is becoming increasingly important in today’s NFL. With offenses becoming more pass-heavy and dynamic, linebackers are required to cover ground quickly, defend against the run, and also be effective in pass coverage. Campbell was one of the few linebackers who excelled in both areas, making him a potential three-down player in the NFL.

When the Eagles selected Jihaad Campbell at No. 31 overall in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, it signified a clear commitment to bolstering their defense. The Eagles had already built a solid defensive unit in recent years, but adding a player like Campbell provides them with a versatile linebacker who can contribute immediately and provide long-term stability.

The NFL is evolving. Gone are the days when linebackers could simply focus on stopping the run and blitzing the quarterback. Today’s NFL demands linebackers who can cover tight ends, running backs, and even wide receivers in the passing game. In Campbell, the Eagles get a player who is capable of doing all of that and more.

Campbell’s ability to cover ground in pass coverage is one of his most enticing attributes. With the rise of pass-catching tight ends and running backs who can stretch the field, Campbell’s ability to match up against these players will make him a vital component of the Eagles’ defense. Whether it’s dropping back in coverage or taking on a blitz, Campbell’s agility and understanding of the game will help him excel in pass coverage situations. His ability to guard against intermediate routes will allow the Eagles’ defense to have more flexibility in both zone and man coverage schemes.

Campbell’s prowess in stopping the run is also a crucial aspect of his game. In today’s NFL, a strong run defense is essential to building a championship-caliber team, and Campbell’s ability to diagnose plays and attack ball carriers with force will fit well into the Eagles’ defensive system. His physicality at the point of attack, combined with his sideline-to-sideline range, makes him a perfect candidate for stopping both inside runs and outside zone plays.

The Eagles’ defensive front, featuring players like Fletcher Cox and Jordan Davis, will benefit from Campbell’s presence. With his ability to read offensive line schemes and navigate through traffic, Campbell will help keep blockers off the defensive line, allowing them to make plays while also helping to free up the Eagles’ pass rushers. His understanding of leverage, paired with his elite reaction times, will make him a key asset in both run-stopping and blitzing situations.

The Eagles’ defense has often relied on strong leadership in the middle of the field, and Campbell fits that mold. His time at Alabama under the tutelage of Nick Saban has given him a solid foundation in football IQ, and he has grown into a leader both on and off the field. Campbell’s demeanor in the locker room and his leadership qualities were a significant factor in his rise as a top NFL prospect.

His competitive edge and ability to stay calm under pressure will make him an asset in key moments of games. Whether it’s during a critical third down or in the final minutes of a close game, Campbell’s confidence and mental fortitude will allow him to step up when it matters most.

As Campbell enters the NFL, he is expected to have an immediate impact on the Eagles’ defense. His versatility as a three-down linebacker will allow him to contribute in multiple ways, whether it’s as a coverage linebacker, a run-stopper, or a blitzer. His presence in the middle of the field will give the Eagles a linebacker who can cover a lot of ground and handle a variety of roles within their defensive scheme.

In terms of his transition to the NFL, Campbell will need to refine his game in certain areas. While his athleticism and instincts are already elite, the speed of the NFL game will be a new challenge for him. Adjusting to the faster pace of NFL offenses and honing his ability to read quarterbacks and offensive linemen will be key areas for growth.

However, given his work ethic, intelligence, and strong coaching background, it is expected that Campbell will adapt quickly and make a significant impact in his rookie year. As part of a defensive unit that already includes Pro Bowl-caliber players, Campbell will have the opportunity to learn from some of the best while making an immediate contribution to the Eagles’ defensive success.

The Philadelphia Eagles have a bright future ahead of them with Jihaad Campbell on their roster. The team’s selection of the Alabama linebacker at No. 31 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft signals a commitment to building a strong, versatile defense capable of competing at the highest level. With his combination of athleticism, football IQ, and leadership qualities, Campbell is poised to become a cornerstone of the Eagles’ defense for years to come.

As Campbell continues to develop his game and adjust to the demands of the NFL, it’s clear that his impact will be felt both on the field and in the locker room. For a team looking to solidify its defense and make a Super Bowl run, Campbell’s selection could prove to be a pivotal move in the Eagles’ quest for future championships.