Jihaad Campbell, a five-star recruit from New Jersey in Alabama’s 2022 class, is emerging as a key defensive player for the Crimson Tide. Now a junior inside linebacker, Campbell leads the team with 20 total tackles and 14 solo tackles in just two games.
Against Western Kentucky and South Florida, Campbell was everywhere on the field, making multiple impactful plays. He nearly snagged an interception against the Bulls and contributed to a defense that has given up just one touchdown so far this season, allowing an average of eight points per game. His individual stats include 2.5 tackles for loss, half a sack, and a pass breakup. In Alabama’s 42-16 win over South Florida, Campbell tallied 11 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, half a sack, and a pass breakup, despite the Bulls having some success on the ground with quarterback Byrum Brown. His mentality to dominate has impressed defensive coordinator Kane Wommack.
“Jihaad is an exceptional athlete,” Wommack said on Monday. “But more importantly, he plays linebacker the way it should be played. He’s relentless in chasing the ball, plays with an incredible motor, and brings great energy. We emphasize effort and finishing plays, and Jihaad embodies that. He plays four to six seconds from point A to point B with violent intent, and I’m proud of how he’s leading us in tackles through two games.”
Campbell will carry his enforcer mindset into Saturday’s game against Wisconsin at Camp Randall Stadium.
