Jihaad Campbell is one of the best overall defenders in the NFL Draft this year after a stellar career at Alabama. Which team will take a chance on the All-SEC linebacker in the coming days?
Las Vegas Raiders – Pick No. 6
The Raiders are in win-now mode after hiring Pete Carroll as head coach and trading for Pro Bowl quarterback Geno Smith. Now, they need to fix up their defense. After losing linebacker Robert Spillane in free agency, the Raiders could fill that hole by drafting a tackling machine in Campbell.
Dallas Cowboys – Pick No. 12
While Micah Parsons dominates the edge and gets after the quarterback, Jerry Jones could use another star in the middle of his defense. Campbell’s ability to create turnovers and shut down plays could make Dallas’s defense elite again.
Indianapolis Colts – Pick No. 14
The Colts need to find a running mate for Zaire Franklin in the linebackers room, especially after losing E.J. Speed this offseason. If Campbell is still on the board, look for Colts GM Chris Ballard to make the right move here.
Cincinnati Bengals – Pick No. 17
Even if Trey Hendrickson doesn’t play linebacker, the Bengals defense, as a whole, could be in bad shape if they part ways with the All-Pro defender. The loss of veteran edge-rusher Sam Hubbard hurts, too.
That is why drafting a solid, all-around player like Campbell could be great medicine for head coach Zac Taylor. Remember, Campbell recorded an impressive five sacks as a middle linebacker last season.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Pick No. 19
Despite re-signing franchise cornerstone Lavonte David this offseason, this team should consider the position’s future. Bringing in Campbell to learn from David this year could be huge for the defense’s future.
KEEP READING: Jihaad Campbell Climbing Up Draft Boards, Looks to Challenge Linebacker Assumptions in the First Round
Minnesota Vikings – Pick No. 24
The Vikings have some serviceable pieces in the middle of their defense in Ivan Pace Jr. and Blake Cashman, but Campbell’s athletic ceiling is way higher. Drafting the 119-tackle man could make Brian Flores’s defense a Super Bowl defense.
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