Eagles' Jihaad Campbell, Zack Baun Compared to Patrick Willis, Bowman by NFL Exec

The Philadelphia Eagles continue to earn high marks for the first-round selection of Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell, and there are those who believe his pairing with 2025 first-team All-Pro selection Zack Baun could be truly special.

"Campbell was one of the higher grades I've given for a linebacker," an executive told The Athletic's Mike Sando. "[Defensive coordinator] Vic Fangio will use Baun off the ball and Campbell on the ball, and that is huge. They will be the blitzers in the simulated four-man pressures that Vic runs. It can be like Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman in San Francisco."

That would be quite the outcome for Philly. Willis is a Hall of Famer, while Bowman was a four-time first-team All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowler. That duo served as the foundation for some very stout 49ers' defenses.

Of course, there are questions about where Campbell's long-term position will be, as he started his college career as an edge-rusher and has the burst and pass-rushing ability to eventually return to that role. It's possible he could follow a similar path to Micah Parsons, who started as an off-ball linebacker before transitioning into more of a pass-rushing role, and to great success.

Time will tell. Given Howie Roseman's recent draft history, however, it's a safe bet that Campbell will thrive in whatever role he ultimately settles into for the Birds.