The Philadelphia Eagles came into this season with a rookie class that had plenty of upside, and so far, it's delivered in meaningful ways. Several young players have already carved out roles, and while some have stepped in due to injuries, others have shown flashes that suggest they could be part of the long-term plan in Philly. Let’s take a closer look at how things are shaking out-especially at linebacker, where the depth chart has been both a blessing and a barrier.
Jihaad Campbell: Ready When Called
First-round pick Jihaad Campbell has already had his number called more than once this year. When Nakobe Dean went down with a knee injury in 2024, Campbell stepped in and held his own.
He showed strong instincts and athleticism, proving he could handle the speed and complexity of NFL defenses. But with Dean healthy again-at least for a stretch-Campbell saw his defensive snaps drop.
That’s not a knock on him; it’s more a reflection of how dominant Dean has looked when he’s on the field.
Now, with Dean sidelined again, Campbell is likely to see increased action. And if his earlier performances are any indication, the Eagles should feel confident in his ability to step in and contribute. He’s not just a stopgap-he’s a player with real starting potential.
Andrew Mukuba: A Setback, But Not Forgotten
Second-round safety Andrew Mukuba was trending in the right direction before a broken ankle landed him on injured reserve. His development was noticeable-especially in coverage, where he was starting to look more comfortable with each passing week.
While there’s no clear timeline for his return, it’s unlikely we’ll see him again this season. That said, Mukuba’s early progress suggests he’ll be right back in the mix next year, likely as a starting safety.
The Eagles invested in him for a reason, and his brief stint on the field showed why.
Smael Mondon Jr.: A Special Teams Standout Searching for a Bigger Role
Fifth-round pick Smael Mondon Jr. made enough of an impression in the preseason to earn a roster spot, and that in itself is no small feat on a team with this much linebacker depth. He flashed some of the athleticism and versatility that made him an intriguing draft prospect, but the reality of the Eagles' linebacker room has made it tough for him to find real playing time on defense.
So far this season, Mondon has logged just 14 defensive snaps. But he’s been a consistent presence on special teams, playing on 66% of those snaps and recording eight tackles across 15 games. That kind of contribution shouldn’t be overlooked-special teams are often where young players cut their teeth and prove their value.
The challenge for Mondon is the logjam ahead of him. With Dean and Zack Baun entrenched as starters and Campbell firmly in the rotation, it’s a tough group to crack. Add in Jeremiah Trotter Jr., who impressed in the preseason when both Baun and Dean were out, and it’s clear the Eagles are loaded at linebacker.
That doesn’t mean Mondon can’t find his niche. He’s already doing it on special teams, and in this league, that’s often the first step toward a bigger role. Whether he eventually carves out a place in the defensive rotation remains to be seen, but for now, he’s doing what rookies are supposed to do-contribute where he can and stay ready for the next opportunity.
The Big Picture
The Eagles' rookie class isn’t just filling gaps-they’re laying a foundation. Campbell has shown he can play meaningful snaps in high-leverage situations.
Mukuba, though sidelined, looked like a future starter before his injury. And Mondon, even in a limited role, is proving he belongs on an NFL roster.
For a team with championship aspirations, developing young talent while staying competitive is a tough balancing act. But so far, the Eagles are managing it well.