2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Jihaad Campbell

Strengths:

• Prototype: A unique blend of size, strength, and speed, coupled with impressive length, allows him to stack blocks and extend his tackle radius.
• Range: Has sideline-to-sideline range as a tackler with good lateral quickness.
• Downhill: Not afraid to enter run lanes and maneuver through tight traffic.
• Pursuit: Demonstrates impressive open-field speed in pursuing ball carriers.
• Size: Has a tall, elongated frame that is difficult to throw around in space.
• Versatility: Possesses athletic traits to rush the passer from various positions and play any linebacker role (MIKE, WILL, SAM).

Weaknesses:

• A Step Slow: He often takes the cheese on play action and option plays, which requires an extra step to locate the football and either break on it or drop into coverage.
• Lane Discipline: Campbell is overly eager to fill outside running lanes and overshoots the target.
• Playing in Space: He appears robotic in coverage, lacking a natural sense of space and feel for the route concepts developing behind him.
• Outside Structure: Undisciplined during the scramble drill, bailing to attack the passer and leaving his man open.
• Take-on Technique: Although willing to step into run lanes, he does not effectively use his hands or leverage to displace opponents or hold his ground.

Final Thoughts and Bears Fit for Jihaad Campbell:

Despite his technical shortcomings as a linebacker, Jihaad Campbell is the only player I have observed who possesses the physical attributes to stack and shed blockers while also demonstrating the sideline-to-sideline range and the length to cover significant ground in the middle of the field. Even if his coverage drops sometimes resemble a Madden-generated drop zone player, Campbell's potential and consistency are elevated by his physical abilities.

Additionally, his scheme versatility enhances his draft profile. I envision him taking on various roles on both even and odd fronts, with his ideal fit being a downhill WILL linebacker on an even front with an aggressive mindset. However, teams utilizing odd fronts may see him as a perfect SAM backer, akin to Leonard Floyd under Vic Fangio, capable of dropping back, executing run fits, or rushing the passer. His adaptability in coverage, against the run, and as a pass rusher will make him a highly sought-after prospect.

For the Bears, Campbell would undoubtedly be a valuable addition to Dennis Allen's defense. Allen has expressed a desire for an aggressive unit, and we know he appreciates versatile linebackers who can keep offenses guessing, as demonstrated during his time in New Orleans. However, it is unlikely that Campbell will be available past the top 50 picks, and I find it hard to believe the Bears will allocate one of their two second-round selections for a linebacker. Therefore, Campbell appears unlikely to become a Chicago Bear this spring.

Pro Comp: Anthony Barr