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Eagles First-Round Rookie Passes Major Off-Field Test
Eagles First-Round Rookie Passes Major Off-Field Test originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Philadelphia Eagles will not see first-round linebacker Jihaad Campbell on the field until training camp. The Alabama product is recovering from significant injuries to his shoulders and knees.
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Despite the limited work he can do on the field, Campbell is doing everything he can to connect with his new teammates.
Even if it means venturing out for a charity softball contest.
Campbell was one of several Eagles players who attended DeVonta Smith's Celebrity Softball Game this weekend. For the rookie, it was a good chance to show his support for a new teammate and a former Alabama legend.
"Came here to show my support for Smitty's contribution to the whole community," Campbell told the media. "It's definitely lit out there. Looked like a baseball game."
Smith has been running the event for four seasons, and profits from it go to St. Luke's University Health Charities and Lehigh Valley IronPig Charities. Since arriving in Philly in 2021, he has been a staple in the community on and off the field.
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The 26-year-old became the fifth player to win a National Championship, Heisman Trophy and Super Bowl. The last of those feats was accomplished in February when he became the first Alabama player in history to catch a touchdown pass in Philadelphia's 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.
Campbell has a long way to go before he can have the kind of impact Smith has over his career in Philly.
However, a good way for a rookie like himself to stand out to veteran leaders like Smith is to show up whenever possible. Campbell did just that this weekend.
And it should go a long way to helping out the rookie linebacker's immersion to the NFL world.
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Related: 'Overlooked' Rookie Poised As Next Late-Round Gem in Eagles Roster Pipeline
Related: Eagles All-Pro Sounds Off On 'Evolution' of Nick Sirianni
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 30, 2025, where it first appeared.