Jihaad Campbell's encouraging injury update shows his perfect mindset for 2025

Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman put in a lot of work during the 2025 NFL Draft to select former Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell with their first-round pick. Campbell hasn't stepped on the field yet, but he appears to be the right man for the job so far.

CBS Sports Eagles reporter Jeff Kerr wrote an article on Campbell's comments on how his rehab for his torn labrum in his shoulder, which he suffered last year with the Crimson Tide. Campbell is keeping it simple with what his immediate goal is.

"The biggest goal is to get back, get back healthy," Campbell said. "Making sure I'm strong and have a good mentality going into camp."

He also discussed the rehabilitation process and how he was feeling about participating in it. Campbell is more anxious than anything to get back on the field and join his new teammates in 2025.

"I wouldn't necessarily say frustration," Campbell said. "Every athlete can vouch for this, but we always feel like, 'Dang I wanna get back out there.' God has a story for everybody, especially for my journey. I got hurt. 

"It's just all about rehab and taking it one day at a time. Just trusting in God's faith and God's journey, so I can be the best version of myself."

All signs point towards Campbell being a good fit for the Eagles

Last year, Campbell was a first-team All-SEC selection after leading Alabama in tackles with 117 and adding 11.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, two forced fumbles, two pass breakups, and one interception in 13 games. He did take part in some of the drills at the NFL Combine, but elected to skip Alabama's Pro Bowl during the offseason.

The Eagles see Campbell right now as an inside linebacker who could move off the edge in the future. Zack Baun and Nakobe Dean are the projected starters in the middle, but Dean is dealing with his own injury rehab. That is opening the door for Jeremiah Trotter Jr. to step in as the starter for the time being.

Campbell's injury was the only major concern with him entering the NFL Draft, which makes his selection that much sweeter. Another Roseman special, where he takes a talented player who drops in the draft and could become a future starter.

It's now about when Campbell will return to the field. Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said during offseason workouts he could be back by mid-August, but head coach Nick Sirianni was not ready to put a timetable on it.

The anticipation of seeing Campbell on the field will be growing for Eagles fans, as expectations are high for him to be a perfect fit for the defense. Versatile and fast while having a strong nose for finding the ball carrier, Campbell can do a lot in this defense and could end up being like Cooper DeJean and move around in the defense like a chess piece.

It'll be interesting to see how much Campbell plays at the beginning of the season versus at the end. He's too talented a player to leave on the bench.