Will Zaire Franklin and Jihaad Campbell become an elite linebacker duo? Wait a minute, those two aren’t teammates. But they can be if the Indianapolis Colts take Alabama’s Campbell in the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Colts own the 14th overall pick. Most mock drafts have the team selecting either Penn State’s Tyler Warren or Michigan’s Colston Loveland. And that makes a ton of sense, seeing that Indy needs a playmaking tight end.
However, Warren will likely be gone before pick No. 14. And who knows, Loveland might not be around, either. Even if one or both players are available, the Colts could still draft Campbell instead.
Linebacker is also a need for Indianapolis. Earlier this offseason, the team lost both E.J. Speed and Grant Stuard in free agency. Speed signed with the division rival Houston Texans while Stuard went to the Detroit Lions.
Drafting a tight end in the first round isn’t necessarily imperative. The Colts could land one later on in the draft. Someone like Bowling Green’s Harold Fannin Jr. or LSU’s Mason Taylor would be a great selection.
A Franklin-Campbell duo would be intriguing, though. But will it happen?
Jihaad Campbell and Zaire Franklin Could Form an Outstanding Linebacker Duo for the Indianapolis Colts
Frankin’s Career
Franklin played his college ball at Syracuse. He recorded 311 tackles during his four-year career.
Indianapolis then drafted Franklin in the seventh round (235th overall) of the 2018 NFL Draft. He later became one of the biggest steals in Colts history. The Philadelphia native has had an impressive journey, going from a special teams contributor to one of the league’s top linebackers.
2024 marked the third straight season Franklin had over 160 tackles. He recorded 167 in 2022, and a franchise-record 179 in 2023. Last season, he led the league with 173 and was selected to his first-ever Pro Bowl.
Campbell’s Career
Originally committed to playing college football at Clemson, Campbell chose the University of Alabama. He played three seasons with the Crimson Tide. Last year, Campbell recorded 117 combined tackles (12 tackles for loss), five sacks, an interception, two pass breakups, and a pair of forced fumbles. For his efforts, he was named a semifinalist for the Bednarik Award, recognizing the top defender in college football. Campbell was also a semifinalist for the Butkus Award, presented annually to the nation’s best linebacker. In addition. he was a First-Team All-SEC selection.
Improved Colts Defense
The Colts’ defense struggled mightily last season. Indianapolis is hoping new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo can help turn things around in 2025.
Anarumo’s defense will need as many solid playmakers as possible. This offseason, the team improved their secondary by signing defensive backs Charvarius Ward and Camryn Bynum. They also added defensive tackle Neville Gallimore to play behind DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart.
Jihaad Campbell would be a welcomed addition as well. He and Franklin could emerge as a fascinating one-two punch for Indianapolis. Franklin operates in the middle of the Colts’ defense, which means Campbell can use his athleticism as a pass rusher, in coverage and when tracking down run plays to the outside.
Perhaps most Colts fans want Warren or Loveland. But they would’t be too upset if Campbell makes his way to Indianapolis instead.
Main Image: Vincent Carchietta – USA Today Sports
The post Colts Could Form Outstanding Linebacker Duo Via 2025 NFL Draft appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.