The University of Alabama may have its first inside linebacker in the first round of the NFL Draft since Rashaan Evans.
Evans was taken 22nd overall to the Tennessee Titans in 2018, but Jihaad Campbell is now solidifying this being his final season in Tuscaloosa (Ala.) with the Crimson Tide. The junior from New Jersey has come on strong in the last few games as the alpha leader on defense. He has impressed with NFL scouts with his size, physicality, coverage skills, and pass-rushing abilities.
Campbell’s versatility allows him to play every linebacker position for Alabama. The 6-foot-3, 244-pounder has been among the top tacklers for the Tide in four of the last five games, dating back to Alabama’s matchup against South Carolina. He forced two fumbles in the last five games, including a strip sack of LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier in a 42-13 win for the Tide over the Tigers.
Campbell is Alabama’s leading tackler at halftime against Mercer with nine stops, a tackle for loss, and a sack.
He has 85 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss, five sacks, two pass breakups, two forced fumbles, and an interception.
Campbell is showing all the qualities of being a first-round linebacker.
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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
