Philadelphia Eagles' Jihaad Campbell faces setback—but Nick Sirianni hints at star potential upon return

When the Philadelphia Eagles traded up to snag Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell at No. 31 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, they knew they were getting a versatile talent with sky-high potential.

What they didn’t anticipate was having to wait to see him in action. Campbell, who signed a fully guaranteed four-year deal worth $14.844 million—including a $7.465 million signing bonus—has spent his first months in the NFL recovering from offseason shoulder surgery. And while he hasn't hit the field yet, the Eagles are making sure his mind is locked in even as his body heals.

Eagles rookie Jihaad Campbell recovering from shoulder surgery as Nick Sirianni outlines mental reps plan and future linebacker role

Jihaad Campbell didn’t participate in any of the Philadelphia Eagles’ offseason workouts, which officially wrapped up on Tuesday, June 11.

He isn’t expected to be ready when training camp opens on July 22 either. But instead of rushing him, Philadelphia is prioritizing his mental development during recovery.Speaking to reporters on Tuesday at the team’s training facility, head coach Nick Sirianni made it clear that there’s no pressure being put on the rookie’s rehab timeline. “We’ll see,” Sirianni said when asked about Campbell’s return. “I never want to put a timetable on anybody… some guys get through things quicker than others and vice versa.”

In the meantime, the Eagles are making use of the time in other ways. “He’s doing everything he can to get himself ready,” Sirianni added. “Our goal for him right now is making sure he can get all the mental reps he possibly can get at this particular time.”

The coaching staff has emphasized film sessions and walkthrough observations to keep Campbell engaged. Sirianni noted, “You’re not working the fundamentals of block destruction or tackling… but what you’re trying to make sure is they have the mental part of the game down.”

Jihaad Campbell set for breakout role with elite versatility and strong mental prep

Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio confirmed earlier this month that Campbell is being trained to handle the inside-linebacker responsibilities. But Sirianni isn’t ruling out other roles for him either.“Looking forward to being able to get our hands on him when he’s able to start practicing,” Sirianni said on Tuesday at the NovaCare Complex. “We know that he’s versatile and able to do multiple things.”While Campbell’s on-field debut remains on hold, the Eagles are laying the groundwork for his long-term success. With mental reps taking center stage and coaching staff keeping faith in his potential, Campbell’s NFL journey is just getting started—even if it’s from the sideline for now.Also Read: Aaron Rodgers drops Bombshell: Secret wife, fresh start, and one last shot with the Pittsburgh Steelers