Saquon Barkley Makes Moving Claim About Eagles’ First-Round Pick Jihaad Campbell

After Jordan Mailata’s Micah Parsons comparison of Jalyx Hunt, running back Saquon Barkley has done the same with linebacker Jihaad Campbell.

Saquon Barkley Makes Moving Claim About Eagles’ First-Round Pick Jihaad Campbell

Jihaad Campbell, Saquon Barkley (Images via AtoZ Sports)

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Ahead of their first preseason game, Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley has praised one of his new teammates, Jihaad Campbell. The 21-year-old linebacker was drafted 31st overall by the defending champions in the spring’s draft.

Barkley, who was drafted from Penn State, compared the young rookie to one of the fellow Nittany Lions former Micah Parsons. He told CBS Sports:

I think it’s gonna be a problem for a lot of guys in this league when you go against him and block him. He’s kinda built like Micah [Parsons] a little bit. As he grows and learns the game a little bit more, he’ll be put in different spots.

The former Alabama standout has quickly made his presence felt after returning from offseason shoulder surgery. Since recovering from the injury he suffered last season in Tuscaloosa, he’s emerged as a dynamic playmaker with his aggressiveness and athleticism.

Saquon Barkley also admitted that there are a few areas where Campbell needs some polishing. Barkley noted that the rookie needs to tone down the aggressiveness and admitted that he would personally help him out. Furthermore, the admissions also suggested that Barkley is slowly transforming into a leadership role in the Eagles camp.

He’s raw, can fly, aggressive, probably too aggressive in camp right now to be honest. Gotta teach him to stay away from the guys in red and knowing when to tag off and take shots. I’d rather have him be more aggressive than not. It’s fun to go against him every single day and he asks a lot of questions.

Campbell is aware of his tendency to be aggressive on the field. He admitted that he needs to be mindful of the dos and don’ts of practice. Additionally, he confessed, via CBS Sports, that he could temper down and have more control of his body.

Vic Fangio doesn’t want to add on the hype on Jihaad Campbell

Jihaad Campbell’s transition to the NFL hasn’t been without growing pains. The former Alabama linebacker has faced early challenges in Eagles training camp, particularly under the demanding eye of defensive coordinator Vic Fangio.

Vic Fangio
Vic Fangio (Image via The Seattle Times)

Fangio, known for his high standards, hasn’t hesitated to point out areas where Campbell needs improvement, including his tendency to overplay in practice and his struggles when tested off the edge.

Despite the criticism, the Eagles remain optimistic about Campbell’s future. His athleticism and energy are undeniable, and the coaching staff is focused on helping him channel those traits more effectively.

With Philadelphia’s defense loaded with veteran talent, the rookie isn’t expected to take on too much too soon. Instead, the emphasis will be on mastering his role and learning how to balance intensity with discipline. Additionally, the presence of veteran players, including Zack Baun, also allows Fangio to slowly ease Campbell into the fast-paced NFL environment.

They’re also mindful of not overloading him too soon. Fangio admitted that they may have burdened the rookie with too much early on, telling the reporters, “We’re probably a little guilty of putting too much on his plate.”

Despite the demanding workload, Campbell appeared motivated and ready to tackle the challenges in front of him. He’s expressed a strong passion for the game and a deep appreciation for the chance to translate lessons from meetings and walkthroughs directly onto the field. He added:

I had football and class back in college. Now, football is just my job. I love to come out here and just put everything from the meetings onto the field so I can perform at my best.

If the Eagles and the rookie can polish the edges, they may find themselves with one of the best secondaries they have assembled in recent history.

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