Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell, a highly touted defensive prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, recently underwent surgery on his left shoulder, sidelining him from the team’s Pro Day. Projected as a first-round pick, Campbell had an outstanding final college season, amassing 117 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks.
His dominant play earned him first-team All-SEC honors, solidifying his status as one of the top linebackers in this draft class.
Alabama’s Jihaad Campbell Undergoes Surgery Ahead of 2025 NFL Draft
Linebacker Jihaad Campbell, a standout prospect from Alabama, recently underwent surgery for a torn labrum following his performance at the NFL Scouting Combine. Campbell, who clocked a 4.52-second 40-yard dash and recorded a 10-foot, 7-inch broad jump, opted out of the bench press and vertical jump due to the shoulder injury.
The setback kept him from participating in Alabama’s Pro Day on March 19, sparking concerns about his readiness for the upcoming season. Campbell initially sustained an upper-body injury during the ReliaQuest Bowl, though it remains unclear if that caused his torn labrum.
His recovery timeline remains uncertain, potentially affecting his availability for rookie minicamp and training camp. While his draft stock isn’t expected to take a major hit, NFL teams will likely scrutinize his medical evaluations before selecting him in the first round.
The typical recovery period for a torn labrum varies, and missing key offseason activities could slow his transition to the NFL, especially in a demanding position like linebacker.
Despite the injury, Campbell remains a highly sought-after prospect, frequently linked to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who hold the 19th overall pick. According to ESPN’s Field Yates, the Buccaneers could view him as an ideal fit to eventually replace veteran linebacker Lavonte David.
Yates stated, “Tampa Bay retained franchise icon Lavonte David for another year, and he’d be the ideal mentor for Campbell to learn from. Campbell — my No. 18 prospect — would also fill an important hole alongside David, giving the Bucs a legitimate three-down linebacker who checks every box required at the position.
“And few coaches love to dial up a blitz more than Todd Bowles, who would surely maximize Campbell’s underrated pass-rush skills (both as a blitzer and off the edge).”
Analyst Jordan Reid of ESPN ranks Campbell as the 14th overall prospect in this year’s draft, reinforcing his first-round value. With the 2025 NFL Draft set for April 24-26 in Green Bay, teams will weigh Campbell’s immense upside against his recovery timeline before making their decision.
