Is Anthony Campanile The Jaguars’ Secret Linebacker Whisperer?

Entering 2025, in Campanile’s first season, Jacksonville declined to pick up first-round pick linebacker Devin Lloyd’s fifth-year option, putting his future in doubt. Under Campanile, Lloyd had a career year, earning AP second-team All-Pro honors after playing in 15 games, recording 85 total tackles, 1.5 sacks, a fumble recovery and five interceptions, including a 99-yard pick-six. He also had the third-highest linebacker grade from Pro Football Focus.

After that season, Lloyd would sign with the Carolina Panthers in free agency, creating a major hole at linebacker next to Foyesade Oluokun. Heading into training camp, Jacksonville had 2025 undrafted free agent linebacker Branson Combs and 2023 fourth-round pick Ventrell Miller battling it out for the vacant position. Miller would be named the opening-day starter in Week 1 against the Cleveland Browns and made the case that Lloyd’s production would not be missed.

​Miller finished Week 1 with nine total tackles, one sack and a forced fumble. He was also named PFF’s highest coverage grade among Jaguars linebackers (92.1) and the highest PFF grade of any Jaguars player (94.5).

“For me, [Anthony Campanile] has been good to be in my corner,” Miller said after Week 1. “He has a high standard for me and expects a lot out of me and a sense of urgency when he coaches me. It’s been good, he’s just trying to make me great.”

Through three weeks, Miller has recorded 24 total tackles, one sack, one forced fumble, one pass defended and two tackles for a loss.  According to PFF, he ranks No. 1 among 69 qualified linebackers with an overall grade of 91.6.

​With 14 games remaining, Miller has already exceeded expectations in his first season as a starter.  Based on his early-season production, he is set for a career year, and Campanile’s coaching is becoming more apparent each passing week.

End Of My Anthony Campanile Rant

Campanile, 44, has the Jaguars’ defense performing at a high level. His toughness and intensity have been a perfect fit for Jacksonville’s defense. If the defense continues to perform at this level, this could be his last season in Jacksonville. During the off-season, he interviewed for the head coaching job with the Baltimore Ravens, Miami Dolphins and Arizona Cardinals.

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Campanile is a fan favorite and players’ coach. His feistiness, physicality and opportunistic style have rubbed off on his players, and it shows in their play. As the season progresses, my eyes will be on the Jaguars’ defense and how much better Ventrell Miller looks from week to week under Campanile’s tutelage.