When the Philadelphia Eagles used their 2025 first-round pick on Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell, the comparisons were immediately made between him and 2024 All-Pro linebacker Zach Baun. Now, Campbell might find himself filling in for Baun much earlier than expected.
Following his breakout season and three-year $51 million contract to remain in Philadelphia, Baun has found himself dealing with a back contusion in training camp, and on Friday, he missed his third-straight practice. That injury has given Campbell the opportunity for first-team reps at linebacker alongside Jermaine Trotter Jr., while former Georgia star Nakobe Dean continues his recovery from a patellar tendon tear last season.