Jihaad Campbell delivers strong message to team after Wednesday's Mercer practice

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Alabama outside linebackers coach Christian Robinson was asked what has stayed consistent for the Crimson Tide’s 2024-25 season through double-digit weeks.

He pointed to the intensity of Alabama’s leaders. The Crimson Tide’s captains spearhead that, with Tyler Booker, Deontae Lawson, Jalen Milore and Malachi Moore being the most vocal on and off the field. But other players are beginning to step up down the final stretch.

One addressed the teams after Alabama’s Wednesday practice of Mercer week concluded.

“Jihaad Campbell spoke to the team today,” Robinson said. “The intensity that those guys come with because you will always respect the guys you line up next to. And so when those guys have it, it’s like, ‘Man, I’ve got to step my game up. I can’t take a minute off, a play off.’ 

“We know that any play could be the play. It came down to a handful of plays in the Vanderbilt and Tennessee games. To see the leadership, no matter who we’re playing, keep the intensity, that is what, as a coach, I’m excited about and appreciate coming in the building.”

Speaking to reporters, Robinson shared the message Campbell had for the team.

“‘If you are not going to give your all for Alabama in practice, then you don’t need to be here,’” Robinson relayed.

“That’s something that those guys, you see it. They talk about. But he’s one of those guys that lives. Tyler Booker, he lives it. The leadership on this team is what drives this team, and I’m excited to see what they continue to do.”

Campbell is coming off a huge performance against LSU. He recorded 12 tackles, three tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, one pass breakup and one forced fumble in Alabama’s 42-13 road win over the Tigers. Campbell was named the SEC’s co-defensive player of the week for his game inside Tiger Stadium and earned high praise from the Crimson Tide coaching staff.

Not just for his play on the field but for the impact he’s beginning to make as a leader.

“He has been making plays for us all year, and then some big ones on Saturday, especially the strip sack there,” said Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer. “Just timely, I think, and getting the momentum back on our side. He’s a playmaker. His ability to run from sideline to sideline is very special. 

“And from a leadership standpoint, just even today, he’s the guy that gets in the middle of the team when we do the little breakdown and did a great job of making sure he gives his perspective and making sure our team aligned and all headed in the direction through our preparation that we need to be. 

“He’s got his head in a great spot, and he’s stepping up as a leader to make sure everyone else does, as well.”

Through nine games, Campbell leads the Tide defense with 76 tackles and nine tackles for loss and is tied for the UA lead in sacks (4). He also has two forced fumbles and an interception.

Campbell has mostly played inside linebacker for Alabama in his third year, but he has moved around the formation and rushed the passer off the edge. More of that might be in his immediate future with Wolf linebacker Que Robinson out for the season. Campbell’s versatility is something the staff discussed earlier this year and could benefit UA down the stretch.

“I’ve seen a growth in him, a desire to refine the things that he maybe didn’t do all the time positionally,” Robinson said. “I’ve spent time with him pass-rushing. I know Que Robinson, leading up to before getting banged up, spent a lot of time with him one-on-one just talking about, ‘Hey, this is how I do it.’ And really learning from each other, as well. 

“And so he’s taken a leap in that, and I think he’s enjoying that, ‘Man, I’m versatile. I can line up and people have to wonder what I’m gonna do before the ball’s snapped.’”

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