Dave Spadaro

If there are ways to script the NFL Draft experience better than the way it all played out for Jihaad Campbell, well, then that's remarkable.

Born and raised in South Jersey, about 20 minutes from Lincoln Financial Field, Campbell started his high school career at Timber Creek High School before hitting the big time at IMG Academy in Florida and then at the University of Alabama. The Eagles moved up one spot in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft to nab Campbell, who talks about his return to his roots and embarking on his NFL journey in this 3 Questions With.

1. What was it like getting the phone call from the Eagles and then hearing NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell say your name?

Campbell:"I think it was pretty obvious what my reaction was. All smiles. Excitement. Surreal as it sunk in, but so happy. Giving the Commissioner a big hug, man, that is something you always dream about. Seeing that 215 area code pop up on the phone, you know, unbelievable. The Draft experience was definitely something very, very special for me and my family and now it's all business. But it is something I will always remember."

2. What kind of football player do you want to be as a Philadelphia Eagle?

Campbell:"A winner. A winner who does everything I can to help this football team. I want to be a relentless, exciting player who is physical and who is going to be there for the team. I love playing the game of football and it's been a dream of mine to play at this level. And to be here is just perfect for me. I know I have a lot of work I need to do and I am far from the player I want to be, but I'm in the place that is going to help me reach my potential. I want to change games, win games, and feel what it's like as a player in Philadelphia. I've been a fan, so I know what it feels like on that side. I want to know how it feels on this side."

3. Do you have a preference as to what kind of role you will have?

Campbell:"That is for the coaches to decide, not me. I'm going to give it my all no matter how they decide to use me on the field. I feel like I'm a versatile player and I know I'm going to learn every day from the guys on this defense. It is going to be hard work. I know that. I want to be the best player I can be, help the defense, help the Eagles win games. That's the role I want to have. As far as a position, nah. Let's just play football."

Previous Rookie Q&As

• Andrew Mukuba
• Ty Robinson
• Mac McWilliams
• Smael Mondon
• Drew Kendall
• Kyle McCord
• Myles Hinton
• Cameron Williams
• Antwaun Powell-Ryland

PhiladelphiaEagles.com