With free agency winding down, the 2025 NFL Draft has come into focus. If you can believe it, the draft is just five weeks away. Before we know it, the Dallas Cowboys will finalize their list of 30 prospects whom will be invited to The Star for an in-depth evaluation.
Like seemingly every year, what Dallas should do with its first-round pick is a polarizing conversation. Cornerback, wide receiver, edge rusher and offensive tackle seem to be the popular choices. If the latest mock drafts are any indication, running back is very much in the discussion as well.
Many think the Cowboys should just draft the best player available. However, that might be a little complicated after a concerning medical update on one of the best players in the draft.
Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell might be available for the Cowboys in the NFL Draft
According to ESPN draft analyst Jordan Reid, Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell had surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder after the combine.
Labrum injuries typically require a 6-8 month recovery, which would put Campbell in jeopardy of missing the start of the NFL season. It is important to note, though, that the severity of Campbell's injury is unknown.
A former five-star recruit at edge rusher, Campbell made the switch to linebacker at Alabama and instantly became one of the nation's premier second-level defenders. That pass-rushing background makes him a hybrid player who can line up on the edge and get after the quarterback. He played 112 snaps on the defensive line this season, per PFF.
RELATED: Ian Rapoport's terrifying Cowboys report reeks of a pre-draft smokescreen
Campbell's anticipation is still a work-in progress, but he has the physical tools and skill set to be an instant stud in the league. He posted an elite 5.9% missed tackle rate this season despite racking up 117 combined tackles.
The demand for quality off-ball linebackers is extremely high. They are a luxury in today's game. You are seeing many teams overpay to keep their starting linebackers. Robert Spillane and Dre Greenlaw were the only recognizable names that reached free agency.
Very few mock drafts have projected Campbell to Dallas, but he would provide a needed jolt of athleticism and give the defense another downhill thumper against the run. He solidified himself as a first-round lock and potential top-10 pick following an electric combine performance.
It's anyone's guess what the Cowboys' draft board looks like. The question now, though, is how much this medical update impacts their view of Campbell, if at all.
The Alabama product wouldn't be the most popular pick at No. 12 overall, but hearing that he had surgery may cause a change of heart in Dallas' war room.