Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell waited nearly the entire night to be drafted, but the wait proved well worth it.
Jihaad Campbell Sees Eagles as the Perfect Match After First-Round Selection
GREEN BAY, Wis. — Jihaad Campbell had to wait longer than expected on Day 1 of the 2025 NFL Draft, but landing with the Philadelphia Eagles at pick No. 31 made the wait worthwhile.
“Save the best for last, man,” Campbell told reporters. “The rich just got richer.”
The versatile Alabama linebacker now joins the reigning Super Bowl champions, who boast one of the league’s top defenses—ranked first in yards allowed and second in points allowed per game. He’ll be coached by the highly respected defensive coordinator Vic Fangio.
Campbell is eager to thrive under Fangio’s leadership. “Just being that dominant force and him allowing me to do that,” he said. “Learning from him, the veterans, and applying it to my game—it’s all about becoming a force on the field.”
He’ll compete for a role in a linebacker unit that includes All-Pro Zack Baun and former first-round pick Nolan Smith. Campbell is especially motivated by the team’s Super Bowl performance against Patrick Mahomes. “I’m excited to come in, learn the scheme, and attack every day,” he said.
With three years of SEC experience at Alabama, Campbell now joins a Philadelphia defense stacked with former SEC talent, especially from Georgia. “Georgia, Bama boys—when we collide, it’s the best thing,” he joked. “But in college season, you know who I’m pulling for.”
Despite needing to earn his spot, Campbell already feels at home. He grew up an Eagles fan in Erial, New Jersey, just an hour from Philadelphia, idolizing Eagles legend Brian Dawkins.
“It was a surreal moment,” Campbell said of being drafted by his childhood team. “My whole family are Eagles fans. It’s a dream come true.”
For Campbell, it’s more than just football—it’s the right fit.
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