When it comes down to Philadelphia sports, if an Eagles player is being compared to another within the organization, it should be taken as the ultimate compliment.
The Eagles have a long history of producing great defensive players, including Reggie White and Brian Dawkins. Rookie first-round pick linebacker Jihaad Campbell received a great comparison from FOX Sports NFL Draft analyst Rob Rang, as Campbell was compared to Jeremiah Trotter.
"Until free agent addition Zack Baun earned All-Pro honors and Super Bowl glory in his first season in Philadelphia (earning a contract extension), no Eagles’ off-ball linebacker had been named a Pro Bowler until Trotter, whose son is now on the roster. Campbell needs time to develop, but his speed in coverage and experience as a pass rusher could make him quite the weapon."
Campbell receives ultimate complement with Trotter comparison
Eagles general manager Howie Roseman fell in love with Campbell for his ability to be able to stop the run, rush the passer, and cover tight ends when he needs to. He's the perfect fit for Fangios' defense.
It's almost similar to how former Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Johnson used Trotter in his heavy blitz defense. Trotter was no stranger to doing a little bit of everything with 12.5 sacks, 50 pass deflections, and nine interceptions in his 11-season career.
Philadelphia will use Campbell in a similar year. He will first be at inside linebacker backing up Zack Baun and Nakobe Dean, but will be rotated in. Campbell is still recovering from his surgery to repair his torn labrum in his shoulder.
There is some irony since Trotter's son, Jeremiah Trotter Jr., is also an inside linebacker and is picking up first-team reps because of Campbell and Dean's injuries. Trotter and Campbell could end up battling for playing time or be on the field together during the season.
Campbell should be honored to be compared to one of Philadelphia's best and most beloved linebackers in franchise history. It gives Eagles fans more excitement in knowing the linebacker position is in good hands for the future.
