Eagles DC Vic Fangio is effusive in praise of Jihaad Campbell
Zack Baun was initially signed by Philadelphia last off-season to add pass rush prowess and versatility to the Eagles' defense. Baun went on to become a Defensive Player of the Year finalist. The Eagles selected Jihaad Campbell in the draft, and on Saturday, the former Alabama star confirmed that he has been working out at both inside linebacker positions.
After initially missing the bulk of the off-season workouts, Campbell has hit the ground running, drawing rave reviews from experts and analysts.
Following a recent practice, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio held his second press conference of training camp and provided eight answers on several pertinent topics involving the Eagles' defense and the competition at several key positions.
Fangio discusses what he wants to see from the cornerback position and highlights the development of rookie first-round pick Jihaad Campbell.
He's taking 'small steps.'
"I do see him making small strides every day. Again, it may not be noticeable to the average eye, but he's making good strides and if he can keep making those strides, I think he'll be what we had hoped he would be."
Campbell learning Baun's spot could provide Philadelphia with a scenario where Nakobe Dean or Jeremiah Trotter Jr. plays the other linebacker spot alongside Campbell, allowing Baun to rush the passer more in 2025.
The Erial, New Jersey native was named to the first-team All-SEC in 2024 after leading the team with 117 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks.
Baun led the top-ranked total defense with 151 tackles and five forced fumbles in 2024. He also added one interception. He was one of two players since at least 2000 with 150-plus tackles and five-plus forced fumbles in a season (the Colts' Zaire Franklin also did so in 2024).
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