Alabama linebacker, Jihaad Campbell finally heard his name called at the 2025 NFL Draft late Thursday night after months of being considered a top-15 overall prospect.
Campbell is weeks removed from having successfully shoulder surgery to repair a torn labrum following his final season at Alabama. Prior to this procedure, Campbell led the Crimson Tide’s defense with five sacks, 117 total tackles, including 12 tackles for loss.
Many projected Campbell to be taken in the first half of the draft, but this was not the case.
The Alabama linebacker was later selected by the reigning Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles with the No. 31 overall pick. Despite injury, this selection was praised by former Alabama head coach, now ESPN football analyst Nick Saban.
“I just love this pick,” Saban said. “I really do. I mean, this guy lit it up at the combine. The only reason they’re getting him here is because people had some injury questions in terms of shoulder surgery. Can he be ready for camp? But if you’re the Philadelphia Eagles, what do you care? You’re going to pick a guy that’s going to be there maybe for the next 10 years for you and be a really, really good player. And when he does get healthy, he’s going to have success.”
It is also important to note Campbell’s doctor, Dr. Cain Lyle believes the former Alabama linebacker should be ready for the start of training camp. This update comes from NFL insider, Ian Rapoport.
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