The NFL Draft kicks off this Thursday, April 24, in Green Bay, where the future of more than 200 college prospects will start to take shape. Among them is Alabama standout Jihaad Campbell.
Considered one of the top two linebackers in the class — and arguably the best true middle linebacker — Campbell is currently recovering from a torn labrum. According to an NFL insider, the injury isn’t expected to significantly impact his availability, and the linebacker is still projected to come off the board in the first round.
Jihaad Campbell Should Be Available for Training Camp
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, Jihaad Campbell’s recovery from his torn labrum has been going smoothly, and the linebacker is expected to be fully cleared with no restrictions by the time training camp begins. That update should ease concerns for teams considering investing first-round draft capital in the Alabama standout.
#Bama LB Jihaad Campbell, a top-15 talent in the 2025 NFL Draft who will be in Green Bay, visited #Cowboys and #Falcons, among others.
Recovering from a torn labrum, Campbell got word from respected Dr. Lyle Cain that he should be ready for training camp. He is already running. pic.twitter.com/RjOSDQvyeC
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 22, 2025
The linebacker underwent surgery on his left shoulder to repair a torn labrum shortly after the NFL Combine. Before the procedure, he posted a 4.52-second 40-yard dash and recorded a 10-foot-7 broad jump. However, he did not participate in the vertical jump or bench press drills.
Rapoport also reported that Jihaad Campbell took official visits with the Dallas Cowboys — who hold the 12th overall pick — and the Atlanta Falcons, currently slated to pick at No. 15. Campbell would be a strong addition for either team, both of which are in need of a true off-ball linebacker to anchor the unit in 2025.
Another team linked to Jihaad Campbell is the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who may view him as the natural successor to veteran linebacker Lavonte David. Holding the 19th overall pick, Tampa Bay would need to hope that both Atlanta and Dallas prioritize other positions, allowing Campbell to potentially fall right into their laps on draft night.
What Are Jihaad Campbell’s Strengths and Weaknesses?
Campbell is widely considered the top linebacker prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. Often compared to Fred Warner for his blend of football IQ and athleticism, Campbell has the tools to become the centerpiece of a defense. He excels in both run support and pass coverage, making him a versatile, three-down linebacker who can lead a unit from day one.
You can check out the full scouting report by clicking here.
Strengths
- Excellent height, size, and length to excel as a prototypical NFL linebacker
- Explosive athlete with outstanding short-area quickness and straight-line speed
- Violent stopping power and delivers shock as a tackler, as well as when he stacks and sheds blocks.
- Outstanding coverage player with the movement skills and length to affect throwing lanes.
- A former high school defensive end, he flashes excellent pass-rushing ability and is nuanced with his rush moves.
Weaknesses
- More of a see-ball-get-ball type of player, and he does not anticipate well and flashes poor instincts at times.
- Will fall for misdirection, traps, and counters, and take himself out of the play.
- Occasionally takes poor angles to the football in pursuit.
- Will miss some tackles as he comes out of control at times and fails to break down.
In a draft class lacking top-tier talent at some of the NFL’s most coveted positions, Jihaad Campbell’s dominance could significantly boost his stock. Despite coming off an injury, his athletic profile and high-level production make him a candidate to rise — and it wouldn’t be surprising to see a team fall in love with his game and take him inside the top 20 picks in the first round.