There are a lot of anxious Philadelphia Eagles fans who want to see their first-round pick linebacker Jihaad Campbell step on the field for the first time. Even so, Campbell could be a prime candidate for an award even though he hasn't proven himself.
NFL.com senior editor Dan Parr shared his top Defensive Rookie of the Year candidates in 2025. Campbell found himself ranked sixth on the list.
"Barring any lingering issues related to the shoulder surgery performed this spring, there is a lot to like about Campbell's situation. While he has the versatility to rush off the edge, he’s slated to start off as an inside linebacker for the Eagles. His instincts need some refining, no doubt, but who better to help develop the rookie than one of the greatest defensive minds in the game, Vic Fangio? With Nakobe Dean still recovering from the serious knee injury he suffered last postseason, Campbell could be the starting middle linebacker for the reigning Super Bowl champions, who figure to field one of the league’s elite defenses once again. He’ll be surrounded by Pro Bowl-caliber talent and could easily rack up the production that grabs the attention of award voters when it’s time to submit ballots. However, if Dean returns when healthy and takes back the starting job, it would probably end Campbell’s DROY hopes."
Last year with the Alabama Crimson Tide, Campbell led the team in tackles with 117, while also adding 11.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, two forced fumbles, two pass breakups, and one interception in 13 games. He was projected as a mid-round pick in Round 1, but had surgery to repair a torn labrum in his shoulder during the offseason, which caused some to be scared of selecting him.
Eagles general manager Howie Roseman loves guys like that, as he knows how much upside there is with Campbell. What attracted Philly to go get him late in the first round was his ability to drop back into coverage if he needs to, but rush the passer on third down.
Campbell is a perfect fit in Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio's scheme for his versatility. The Eagles for the time being though will have Campbell line up as an inside linebacker, but might put him on the edge once he learns the speed of the pros.
Philly is going to roll with Zack Baun and Nakobe Dean as the starting inside linebackers. Dean is also dealing with recovering from injury as he and Campbell have both been out. Jeremiah Trotter Jr. has been filling in as the other inside backer with Baun.
Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni has not set a timetable for when Campbell will return, but Fangio stated at offseason workouts that he expects Campbell back by mid-August. Campbell has yet to work out during the offseason, and it sounded like he isn't ready for training camp yet.
Sirianni and the Eagles will play it safe with Campbell, but hope he can get on the field soon. His skill set is good enough to make him a prime candidate to break out like Jalen Carter, Quinyon Mitchell, and Cooper DeJean have as rookies in this defense.
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