Eagles' 2026 Breakout Candidate Revealed

Pro Football Focus names second-year LB Jihaad Campbell as a player to watch in 2026.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 9:15pm

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According to Pro Football Focus, second-year linebacker Jihaad Campbell is poised for a breakout season with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2026. Campbell started 10 games as a rookie in 2025, recording 80 total tackles, 3 passes defended, 2 tackles for loss, 1 interception, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 QB hit. He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team and could see an expanded role in 2026, especially if the Eagles lose starting linebacker Nakobe Dean in free agency.

Why it matters

The Eagles are facing potential roster turnover at the linebacker position, which could open the door for Campbell to emerge as a key contributor on defense. As a first-round pick in 2025, the team has high expectations for Campbell, and his strong rookie campaign suggests he's ready to take on a bigger role.

The details

In his 10 starts as a rookie, Campbell earned an impressive 82.1 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, while missing just 4 tackles. With Dean's future in Philadelphia uncertain, Campbell could soon become a mainstay in the Eagles' defense alongside Zack Baun. Even if Dean is retained, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio is expected to find ways to get Campbell significant playing time.

  • Campbell was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2025.
  • Campbell started 10 games for the Eagles as a rookie in 2025.
  • Nakobe Dean is set to be a free agent this offseason.

The players

Jihaad Campbell

A second-year linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles who was a first-round draft pick in 2025 and had a productive rookie season, earning a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team.

Nakobe Dean

A starting linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles who is set to be a free agent this offseason, which could open the door for Campbell to take on a larger role in 2026.

Zack Baun

A linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles who is expected to play alongside Campbell in the team's defense.

Vic Fangio

The defensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, who is expected to find ways to get Campbell significant playing time in 2026.

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What’s next

The Eagles will need to decide whether to re-sign Nakobe Dean or allow him to leave in free agency, which could have a significant impact on Jihaad Campbell's role in 2026.

The takeaway

Jihaad Campbell's strong rookie season has positioned him as a potential breakout player for the Eagles in 2026, especially if the team loses starting linebacker Nakobe Dean in free agency. Campbell's emergence could allow the Eagles to move on from Dean and solidify their linebacker corps for the future.