New Orleans Saints linebacker Demario Davis remains one of the best all-around defenders in the NFL.
Davis is coming off his eighth straight 100+ tackle season. His elite instincts and ferocity is the catalyst of the New Orleans defense. However, he is 36, coming off his 13th NFL season, and saw a statistical drop-off last year.
Moreover, the Saints have unproven linebackers outside of Davis aside from the steady but unspectacular Pete Werner. With new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley expected to run a 3-4 base scheme, New Orleans looks extremely thin on their linebacker depth chart.
The Saints hope for rapid development from young linebackers Jaylan Ford, Anfernee Orji, Nephi Sewell, D'Marco Jackson, or Isaiah Stalbird. However, all were late-round picks or undrafted signings.
With no apparent successor or complement to Davis and little proven depth, many expect New Orleans to use a draft choice at the position. If they target one with a high draft pick, this SEC star could be on their radar.
Jihaad Campbell, LB (Alabama)
Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Jihaad Campbell pressures Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Diego Pavia (2). © Denny Simmons / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
After starting his high school career at Timber Creek Regional High School in New Jersey, Campbell would transfer to the famed IMG Academy in Florida for his senior year. He would eventually settle on the University of Alabama for his collegiate choice.
As a freshman in 2022, Campbell saw the field little. In 2023, he'd appear in all but one contest and made eight starts. He'd have an interception and two fumble recoveries, one returned for a touchdown, while recording a half sack and 2 tackles for loss among 66 total stops.
Campbell jumped into national prominence this past season. He had 117 total tackles, including 54 solo stops and 12 for loss, along with 5 sacks to lead the Crimson Tide in all four categories. Additionally, Campbell had one interception and 2 forced fumbles on his way to 1st Team All-SEC recognition.
Sept. 23, 2023; Mississippi Rebels quarterback Jaxson Dart (2) looses his helmet on a hit by Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Jihaad Campbell (30). Mandatory Credit: Butch Dill-Imagn Images
Jihaad Campbell was also one of the more impressive defensive players at the NFL Scouting Combine. His 40 time of 4.52, 1.53 second 10-yard split, and 10'7" broad jump were all at the very top of the linebackers who participated in drills.
Campbell is probably best suited for an in-the-box and off-ball linebacker. However, he's also shown potential as an outside rush linebacker. What is concerning is that he doesn't have a ton of experience in either area.
As a pass rusher, Campbell has never had to display expanded pass rushing moves, instead relying on speed and athleticism. He's also shown some struggles against the run and disengaging from blockers. He'll have a tendency to step into blockers with a high pad level, losing leverage and getting driven off the ball.
As an off-ball linebacker, Campbell will need to show that he can instinctively handle more complex NFL offenses. He'll need to display better recognition in zone coverage and against the run. He showed some vulnerability in both areas at Alabama, particularly against misdirection.
Nov 16, 2024; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Jihaad Campbell (11) sacks Mercer quarterback Whitt Newbauer (8). Mandatory Credit: Gary Cosby Jr.-Tuscaloosa News
Campbell has the raw athletic ability to be an NFL playmaker. His size, 6'3" and 235-Lbs., also allows him to add some bulk without sacrificing speed. That athleticism allows him to stay with any tight end or back in man coverage or to chase down plays from sideline to sideline.
Few collegiate linebackers showed the coverage instincts that Campbell has the last two years. He's also got an explosive downhill burst that serves him well when rushing the passer and makes him a potentially elite run defender.
In the open field, Campbell shows outstanding technique as a tackler with the ability to run down plays before they get around the corner. His read-and-react instincts shows a player with some inexperience, but also one that's just touched the surface of vast potential.
Oklahoma Sooners running back Xavier Robinson (21) is brought down by Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Jihaad Campbell (11). © BRYAN TERRY/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Jihaad Campbell was projected as a late 1st round or early Day 2 pick. However, he's risen steadily up draft boards and may even be selected in the top 15 picks.
NFL teams are always looking for a ''unicorn'' linebacker; one that can be a factor from multiple positions and stay on the field in every situation. They may not need to look any further than the latest star Alabama defender.
The New Orleans defense needs a playmaking linebacker alongside Demario Davis. This an even bigger need in Brandon Staley's 3-4 scheme. It may take a high first-round choice to get him, but Jihaad Campbell should provide an instant impact and long-term fixture at linebacker.
Related: Miami Hurricanes Tight End Elijah Arroyo Provides Matchup Advantages In The NFL Draft
Related: Michigan Corner Will Johnson Could Redefine A Defense Early In The NFL Draft
Related: LSU Lineman Will Campbell Fills An Immediate Need As A First-Round Choice
Related: Why Mississippi Edge Rusher Princely Umanmielen May Be An Underrated NFL Draft Gem
Related: Saints 7-Round Mock Draft, Free Agency Edition
Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
This story was originally published March 27, 2025 at 9:00 AM.