Philadelphia Eagles' 2026 breakout candidate revealed by Pro Football Focus

Pro Football Focus recently named one early 2026 breakout candidate for every team in the NFL. For the Philadelphia Eagles, the selection was second-year linebacker Jihaad Campbell.

Campbell showed a lot of promise as a rookie in 2025. He started in 10 games for the Eagles and recorded 80 total tackles, three passes defended, two tackles for a loss, an interception, a fumble recovery and a QB hit.

Jihaad Campbell named Eagles' 2026 breakout candidate 

Campbell was named to the named to PFWA All-Rookie Team as a result of his productive first-year play, and he could be in line for an even bigger role in 2026 if the Eagles lose some key contributors in free agency.

From PFF:

"Campbell got his opportunity to start in the absence of Nakobe Dean early in the season and performed very well. His playing time diminished when Dean returned, but Dean is set to be a free agent this offseason. Across his 10 starts, Campbell earned an excellent 82.1 PFF overall grade while missing just four tackles. He should soon become a mainstay in the Eagles’ defense alongside Zack Baun." 

The Eagles are in danger of losing Dean in free agency, and if they do, Campbell’s role will likely increase exponentially. In fact, Campbell’s presence on the roster could lead the Eagles to feeling like bringing Dean back isn’t a priority.

After all, Campbell is a guy who they selected in the first round of the draft just a year ago. Expectations for him were high then within the organization, and that continues to be the case.

Even if the Eagles do retain Dean, you have to imagine that defensive coordinator Vic Fangio will find a way to get Campbell ample on-field opportunity. As a result, he makes sense as a breakout candidate selection. 

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