Alabama Star Jihaad Campbell Perfect Fit For Bengals Defense
Jihaad Campbell, a former 5-star recruit from Florida’s prestigious IMG Academy, has emerged as a standout linebacker prospect heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. Initially a pass-rushing outside linebacker and wide receiver in high school, Campbell has successfully transitioned to an off-ball linebacker role at Alabama, where he earned First-team All-SEC honors last season.
Campbell showcases impressive skills, particularly in the run game, leveraging his active hands, strong tackling, and athleticism to disrupt opposing offenses. He excels at taking on blocks and exhibits the ability to shed them effectively, allowing him to make plays across the field. However, he occasionally shows overzealousness, leading to positional mistakes such as overrunning plays and failing to maintain proper pad level in short-yardage situations.
In pass coverage, Campbell’s athletic prowess allows him to drop back effectively and read quarterbacks, although his lack of experience can lead to some vulnerabilities, particularly in zone coverage where he occasionally gives up deeper routes. His background as a pass-rusher in high school translates well, making him a valuable asset during blitzes, especially against running backs and tight ends.
Ideal for teams willing to maximize his ability as an off-ball linebacker who can blitz, Campbell draws comparisons to Demario Davis and is seen as a mid-first-round talent with significant upside in both run defense and pass coverage.
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