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Jihaad Campbell Drafted by Super Bowl-Champion Eagles

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Alec Musa | Last updated Apr 24, 2025 11:43 PM ET

Jihaad Campbell started his career with the Alabama Crimson Tide as the top-ranked edge rusher in the 2022 class, according to 247Sports. A converted defensive lineman, Campbell operated as a special-teams ace as a true freshman before becoming a rotational linebacker in 2023.

On Thursday, Campbell heard his name called in the first round of the NFL draft by the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles with pick No. 31.

Across 12 games and eight starts, Campbell had 66 tackles, four TFLs, two fumbled recoveries, and an interception in 2023 before his breakout season last year.

Campbell finished 2024 with 117 tackles, the fourth-best mark in the SEC. He added 12 TFLs and five sacks, with an interception and fumble recovery. He had four games with double-digit tackles, highlighted by a ten-tackle, three-TFL game against rival LSU. Campbell also forced a fumble in the 42-13 win.

A first-team All-SEC member in 2024, Campbell ran a 4.52-second 40-yard dash at this year's NFL Scouting Combine. Per NFL Draft Buzz, he ranked second among off-ball linebackers, just behind Jalon Walker, formerly of the Georgia Bulldogs.

NFL Draft Buzz praises Campbell for his elite athleticism and coverage instincts despite beginning his football career as an edge rusher.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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