The 2025 NFL offseason is here and that means it’s time for mock drafts, draft profiles and everything that goes with them. So without further ado, here’s one of many Draft Profiles for the 2025 NFL draft.
Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama
HT: 6’3
WT: 236 lbs
Accolades:
First-team All-SEC (2024)
Video:
Pros:
Explosive first step jumps off the tape – watch him knife through the A-gap against LSU, leaving their protection scheme in shambles on his way to a drive-killing sack
Coverage instincts are advanced for a converted edge player – his interception against Georgia showed exceptional route recognition from zone drop
Brings serious pop as a tackler while maintaining efficiency – only 5.5% missed tackle rate in 2024 and consistently delivers the message on contact
Multifaceted weapon who creates matchup problems – spent 20+ snaps each at MIKE, WILL, and edge spots against Tennessee and Missouri
Rare closing speed for a 244-pounder – his pursuit angle on the scoop-and-score against Tennessee was a masterclass in acceleration
Uses 6’3″ frame and long arms to disrupt passing lanes – broke up multiple quick games against Michigan by getting his mitts up in throwing lanes
Shows natural timing as a blitzer – his delayed pressure against South Carolina caused a game-changing strip sack in the fourth quarter
Developmental arc points up – youngest linebacker in the class with demonstrable improvement each season at Alabama
Cons:
Over-aggression creates vulnerability against misdirection – bit hard on multiple play-action fakes against Auburn, creating explosive play opportunities
Still developing hand usage when stack-and-shed is required – top offensive linemen at LSU and Michigan were able to latch and control
Pad level rises when tackling in space – allowed extra yards after contact against physical SEC backs who could drive through arm tackles
Will abandon zone landmarks early when quarterbacks scramble – gave up two big plays against Missouri trying to chase their mobile QB
Pass rush plan needs expansion – currently wins primarily with speed and bend, struggled when forced to counter against better SEC tackles
Summary:
After extensive film study of Campbell’s 2024 season, his impact potential jumps off the screen. His usage at Alabama – particularly in their simulated pressure packages – showcases a dynamic defender who can wreck offensive game plans from multiple alignments. The LSU game exemplified his playmaking ceiling: perfectly timed A-gap pressures, explosive range against screens, and the athleticism to match up in coverage. While he occasionally struggled when linemen got square to him, his ability to slip blocks and close space made him a constant threat.
Modern defensive systems that emphasize second-level pressure and multiple fronts will get an immediate impact player with Pro Bowl upside. His performances against Tennessee and Missouri highlight why he’s a top-40 prospect – seamlessly dropping into Tampa-2 zones, timing up delayed blitzes, and showing the processing speed to diagnose plays quickly. Yes, he’ll need to continue developing his block-shedding technique and coverage discipline against play-action, but his current skill set already translates to significant defensive value.
The tape shows a 21-year-old defender playing with veteran savvy in crucial moments. That fourth quarter against Auburn was telling – after biting on an early play-action, he adjusted and proceeded to blow up three straight screen attempts with textbook diagnosis and explosive closing speed. His combination of youth, elite physical traits, and steep development curve points to a future defensive cornerstone. In a league where offensive innovation forces defenses to constantly adapt, Jihaad Campbell brings the scheme versatility and explosive athleticism to be a difference-maker by year two.
Information in this article was obtained from NFL Draft Buzz and is used with permission. Find the latest coverage, analysis, and player rankings for the 2025 NFL Draft at nfldraftbuzz.com
Follow, Like and Subscribe to Bucs Report
For more on this and everything Buccaneers check back here hourly at BucsReport.com
