In a thrilling turn of events during the 2025 NFL Draft, the Philadelphia Eagles made a significant move by selecting Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell with the No. 31 overall pick. This marks the ninth consecutive year that multiple players from Alabama have been chosen in the first round, continuing the program's impressive legacy in producing NFL talent.
Earlier in the night, Alabama offensive lineman Tyler Booker was picked by the Dallas Cowboys with the No. 12 overall selection, setting the stage for Campbell's moment in the spotlight. The Eagles, eager to bolster their defense, traded up one spot from pick No. 32 with the Kansas City Chiefs, giving up the No. 164 pick in the process.
Campbell, a 6-foot-3, 233-pound linebacker, joins a formidable Eagles roster that already boasts several former Alabama stars, including quarterback Jalen Hurts and wide receiver DeVonta Smith. This selection not only adds depth to the Eagles' defense but also brings a player who is familiar with the rigors of high-level competition.
During his time at Alabama, Campbell made a name for himself as a versatile player, starting 21 games over the past two seasons. His impressive statistics from last season include 117 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and five sacks, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. "This guy's a great person," said former Alabama head coach Nick Saban during the draft telecast. "He has tremendous range, speed. He can play in or out...I thought had a fantastic year this year."
Despite suffering a shoulder injury that required surgery to repair a torn labrum earlier this year, Campbell's potential remains high. His performance at the NFL Combine, where he clocked a 4.52 in the 40-yard dash, demonstrated his elite athleticism, making him an attractive option for the Eagles.
General Manager Howie Roseman expressed confidence in Campbell's abilities, stating, "A really explosive player. He can play inside, he can be an edge rusher. We just really feel fortunate to bring him back home to Philly." This versatility could prove crucial for the Eagles, especially with Nakobe Dean's uncertain status following a knee injury sustained in the playoffs.
As the Eagles look to defend their Super Bowl title, Campbell's addition could provide the spark needed for their defense. His ability to excel in coverage and as a pass rusher makes him a valuable asset for defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. Campbell's journey from a standout at Timber Creek Regional High School to a key player for the Eagles is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
Campbell's selection also marks a potential shift in the Eagles' defensive strategy. While he has played primarily as an off-ball linebacker, his background as an edge rusher at Alabama gives the Eagles flexibility in how they deploy him. "I think, just being a dominant force for the defense," Campbell said, expressing his eagerness to contribute. "Just put me wherever, and finding different schemes and making it happen."
With the Eagles having made this strategic move, the focus now shifts to Campbell's recovery from surgery and his readiness for training camp. Reports indicate he is expected to be prepared for the start of training, which will be crucial as the Eagles gear up for the upcoming season.
As the draft unfolded, it became clear that the Eagles were not only looking to fill immediate needs but also to secure a player they believe has top-10 talent. Roseman noted, "If we start drafting for need, or we start turning down top-10 players when we’re picking in the 30s, it’s not going to be good for our football team." This philosophy underscores the Eagles' commitment to building a championship-caliber roster.
In conclusion, Jihaad Campbell's selection by the Eagles is a significant development for both the player and the franchise. As he embarks on this new chapter in his career, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how his skills translate to the NFL level. With a strong foundation from Alabama and a clear vision from the Eagles' coaching staff, Campbell could very well become a key contributor in their pursuit of another Super Bowl title.
