The training camp hype over Jihaad Campbell has been at an all-time high for the Eagles, as he once again proved in their preseason game loss against the Cleveland Browns.
Campbell's biggest highlight of the game was sacking Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel on the first drive of the game. He was all over the field, showing off his speed as he was there on screen passes and getting in on tackles in the running game.
The Eagles' 2025 first-round pick finished the game with four tackles (three solo), one tackle for loss, one quarterback hit, and one sack.
Campbell continues to carry his momentum from training camp into the game
This past week was a strong week for Campbell and his counterpart, Jeremiah Trotter Jr. Both were praised for their ability to stop the run from the middle of the defense.
Campbell was getting additional praise for his speed and aggressiveness, which were shown throughout training camp. Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio showed in camp that Campbell could be playing some edge rusher as well from the outside.
That's a role Campbell is familiar with as he played off the edge in college at Alabama where he showed his pass-rushing abilities. The Eagles have been seeing the same thing at camp as his speed makes him dangerous enough to run pass offensive tackles.
Where Campbell needs development is in making sure not to be overly aggressive, as he misses a tackle because he's going too fast. Eagles fans would like to see how he does back in coverage more often and whether he can make a play to stop a pass.
Read more:2 winners (and 3 losers) in Eagles' flat 22-13 loss against the Browns
Campbell has one more preseason game to get into NFL shape and prove that he should be in the starting lineup. With some unknowns about Nakobe Dean playing in Week 1, Campbell has made more than a convincing argument to get into the rotation at inside linebacker with Zack Baun and Trotter.