Eagles 2025 1st round pick at Risk of Being Cut from Main Roster Due to Unresolved Injury

Philadelphia, PA – June 16, 2025 – The Philadelphia Eagles’ 2025 first-round draft pick, Jihaad Campbell, faces an uncertain future with the team as his recovery from shoulder surgery continues to lag. Selected 31st overall out of Alabama, Campbell was heralded as a steal, with analysts ranking him among the top defensive prospects in the draft. However, persistent injury concerns, particularly a torn labrum in his left shoulder, have raised questions about his readiness for the upcoming NFL season and his spot on the Eagles’ main roster.

A Promising Talent with a Troubled Medical History

Jihaad Campbell, a 6-foot-3, 235-pound linebacker, was a standout at Alabama, earning First-Team All-SEC honors in 2024 with 117 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks. His versatility as both an off-ball linebacker and pass rusher made him a coveted prospect, with some analysts comparing him to San Francisco 49ers star Fred Warner for his football IQ and athleticism. The Eagles, fresh off a Super Bowl LIX victory, traded up one spot to secure Campbell, viewing him as a long-term investment to bolster their already formidable defense.

However, Campbell’s draft stock took a hit due to medical concerns. He underwent surgery in March 2025 to repair a torn labrum sustained during Alabama’s ReliaQuest Bowl loss to Michigan. While Campbell participated in the NFL Combine, posting an impressive 4.52-second 40-yard dash and a 10-foot-7 broad jump, he was unable to take part in Alabama’s Pro Day due to the surgery. Reports also surfaced of additional concerns regarding his other shoulder and knees, further complicating his medical profile.

Recovery Delays Spark Roster Concerns

Despite optimism from NFL insider Ian Rapoport in April 2025 that Campbell would be ready for training camp, recent updates paint a less promising picture. Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio confirmed on June 3 that Campbell would not be cleared for full practice until at least August, missing valuable Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and rookie minicamp. Head coach Nick Sirianni echoed this sentiment during mandatory minicamp, urging fans to remain patient as Campbell focuses on rehabilitation.

The Eagles’ linebacker room is already stacked with talent, including All-Pro Zack Baun, Nakobe Dean, and Jeremiah Trotter Jr. Baun’s breakout 2024 season and Dean’s potential as a starter mean Campbell faces stiff competition for playing time. With Dean recovering from a torn patellar tendon, Campbell was projected to compete for a starting role alongside Baun. However, his delayed recovery could limit his ability to master Vic Fangio’s complex defensive scheme, which demands versatility and precision from linebackers.

The Risk of Being Cut

While Campbell’s talent is undeniable, the Eagles’ depth and championship aspirations leave little room for uncertainty. The team’s decision to draft Campbell despite his injury history was a calculated risk, with general manager Howie Roseman expressing confidence in the team’s medical staff and Campbell’s long-term potential. Roseman stated post-draft, “We do not have any long-term concerns with his health. We have a lot of confidence this guy’s going to be here and play at a really high level for a long time.”

Yet, the NFL is a results-driven league, and Campbell’s inability to participate in team drills could jeopardize his roster spot. If he starts the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, as some teams feared during the draft, he may miss the first six weeks of the regular season, further delaying his integration into the defense. In a worst-case scenario, the Eagles could opt to waive Campbell and re-sign him to the practice squad, though this carries the risk of losing him to another team via waivers.

Campbell’s Resilience and Path Forward

Campbell, a South Jersey native and lifelong Eagles fan, remains optimistic about his recovery. During his introductory press conference, he emphasized a day-by-day approach, stating, “I’m just really trying to focus on tomorrow.” His early life experiences, including overcoming a significant injury during his freshman year at Timber Creek High School, have instilled a resilience that could serve him well in this challenge. Campbell’s supporters, including former Alabama coach Nick Saban, have praised his character and work ethic, noting his ability to adapt and improve.

The Eagles’ medical staff and coaching team are working closely with Campbell, incorporating individual drills tailored to his current capabilities. Defensive coordinator Fangio has expressed confidence in Campbell’s ability to learn the playbook through meetings, positioning him primarily as an inside linebacker for now, with potential to shift to edge rusher later.

What’s Next for Campbell and the Eagles?

As training camp approaches, Campbell’s progress will be closely monitored. A full recovery by August could solidify his place on the 53-man roster, potentially as a rotational player with the upside to become a starter. However, persistent setbacks could force the Eagles to make a tough decision, balancing Campbell’s long-term potential against the immediate needs of a contending team.

For now, Eagles fans must wait and hope that their prized rookie can overcome his injury hurdles. Campbell’s journey from a top-10 talent to a first-round steal is a testament to his potential, but in the NFL, potential must be matched by performance. Whether he emerges as a Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate or faces a stint on the practice squad, Campbell’s story is far from over.