Jihaad Campbell will not become a full-time edge rusher in the Philadelphia Eagles’ defense, but defensive coordinator Vic Fangio still intends to utilize the second-year linebacker’s ability to pressure quarterbacks. Campbell provided a preview during Tuesday’s training camp practice when he reached Jalen Hurts on a blitz moments before the quarterback released a completion to Dontayvion Wicks. The play highlighted the explosiveness Philadelphia believed Campbell could provide when it selected him in the first round of the 2025 NFL draft.
Fangio was asked whether Campbell could be deployed as a blitzer in a role similar to the one previously occupied by Nakobe Dean.
“We hope so,” Fangio said. “It was nice to see him do it yesterday, but we’ll
see how he does in the game. But yeah, I mean, he should be able to.”
Campbell’s versatility was one of his defining traits coming out of Alabama. He arrived there as an edge prospect before transitioning into an off-ball linebacker capable of playing in coverage, defending the run and rushing from depth.
The Eagles do not need to compromise Campbell’s development at linebacker to capitalize on that background. Fangio can send him through interior gaps, bring him around the edge or incorporate him into simulated-pressure packages while keeping offenses from identifying the fourth rusher before the snap. Dean provided similar value because of his timing, acceleration and willingness to attack blockers. Campbell offers a larger frame and impressive athleticism for Fangio to develop.
Training camp success is encouraging, but the preseason will provide the next test. If Campbell can consistently defeat protection schemes and finish pressures, Philadelphia will have another versatile weapon within its defensive front.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles plan to unleash Jihaad Campbell as an inside blitzer
