In a projected trade with the Indianapolis Colts, the Las Vegas Raiders make a power move by selecting Jihaad Campbell, the ultra-athletic linebacker out of Alabama, with the 14th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. While it might feel like a Pete Carroll-style pick, the strategy behind it aligns perfectly with the evolving identity of the Raiders under head coach Antonio Pierce and defensive coordinator Patrick Graham.
Campbell isn’t just another linebacker—he’s the type of defensive chess piece that modern NFL coordinators dream about. At 6’3″, 230 pounds, with sideline-to-sideline speed and elite instincts in coverage, Campbell brings the exact blend of versatility and athleticism that’s become essential in today’s pass-heavy league. His ability to stay on the field in all situations—without being a liability against the run or pass—is what separates him from the pack.
Raiders fans should remember the kind of impact rangy, high-IQ linebackers made during the Buccaneers’ 2020 Super Bowl run. Back then, John Spytek—now a key figure in the Raiders’ front office—helped build a Tampa Bay roster around that exact blueprint. With players like Lavonte David and Devin White anchoring the middle, the Bucs had the speed and coverage ability to neutralize tight ends, running backs, and mobile quarterbacks alike.
That same vision is alive and well in Las Vegas. Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham is known for his complex, adaptable schemes that demand smart, fast, and flexible defenders—traits that Campbell embodies. Much like Brian Flores, Graham prefers his defenses to be run from the inside out, with linebackers playing a central role in dictating coverages and run fits. Campbell fits that mold to perfection.
The Alabama product made waves in 2024 with his improved instincts, better processing, and sharper tackling technique. He showed he can match up with tight ends in man coverage, blitz effectively when called upon, and shoot gaps in the run game. Campbell finished his final season with 102 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, and 2 interceptions, showcasing his growing versatility and nose for the ball.
More importantly, Campbell has the football intelligence and leadership qualities that are rare for a college linebacker. He was the signal-caller for Alabama’s defense and thrived under Nick Saban’s high-pressure system. That experience will serve him well as he steps into the heart of Graham’s defense, where he’ll be expected to quickly adapt and potentially wear the green dot on his helmet.
This pick also sends a message: the Raiders are building a defense that doesn’t just react—it dictates. With Maxx Crosby coming off the edge and now Campbell patrolling the middle, Las Vegas is forming a core that can control games and keep pace with high-octane offenses across the AFC.
While some fans may have hoped for a flashier pick—perhaps a cornerback or wide receiver—Campbell brings a different kind of value. He’s not just filling a need; he’s reinforcing the foundation of a defense that’s finally starting to forge an identity. This is the kind of pick that may not light up the highlight reels on draft night, but pays off in December and January.
And let’s not forget: with this trade, Las Vegas not only lands a future defensive anchor but likely adds more draft capital later on. It’s a savvy, forward-thinking move—one that shows the Raiders are serious about long-term sustainability, not just short-term headlines.
If Jihaad Campbell lives up to his potential, this pick could be a defining moment in the Raiders’ rebuild. Not just a linebacker—a leader, a disruptor, and the heartbeat of a new-look Las Vegas defense.