Logo

Eagles Consider Veteran LB Reunion to Back Up Jihaad Campbell After Injury Concern

PHILADELPHIA — The Eagles may be looking to bring back a familiar face to reinforce their linebacker corps — especially with rookie Jihaad Campbell’s injury raising early concerns just weeks into OTAs.

According to team insiders, Philadelphia is evaluating the possibility of reuniting with a former LB who posted an incredible 137 tackles in his peak season and was on the Eagles' roster at the end of 2024. While he didn’t play major snaps last year, the front office reportedly values his experience and leadership.

With Campbell seen as a long-term piece, the Birds are now weighing short-term depth insurance — and they may not want to gamble with another unproven option behind him.


Shaquille Leonard - A Smart, Low-Risk Move?

Analyzing the Colts' surprising release of former All-Pro linebacker Shaquille  Leonard - Stampede Blue

The potential target may not be in his prime anymore, but sources say he’s healthy, motivated, and still has something to offer — especially in a locker room that’s building a championship culture. He could provide much-needed support as Campbell recovers or adjusts to the speed of the NFL.

The Eagles’ current linebacker group lacks high-end experience beyond Nakobe Dean and Ben VanSumeren. Bringing in a trusted veteran could allow the coaching staff to avoid rushing Campbell back, while also adding an emotional leader familiar with the building.


Injury Fallout and Implications

NFL Free Agency: LB Shaq Leonard to Seattle Seahawks?

Jihaad Campbell’s minor setback may not threaten his season, but in a division as physical as the NFC East, linebacker depth is never a luxury — it’s a necessity.

“We love our young guys,” one insider said, “but you can’t go into the season thin at the second level. We need a grown man in the room.”

This type of move would also benefit special teams, where veterans with good tackling instincts often make a big difference.


Fantasy, Bettors, and Defensive Depth

Colts players express surprise at Shaquille Leonard's empty locker -  Sportsnet.ca

For fans in Fantasy Football IDP leagues, this move could shift early sleeper rankings if the vet becomes part of the LB rotation. Meanwhile, NFL Super Bowl odds would slightly tilt back in Philly’s favor if their defensive depth stabilizes after Campbell’s scare.

And for those using the best NFL betting apps, any move to bolster the Eagles' front seven will be worth monitoring.


More to Read:

  • Fantasy Football Sleepers 2025: IDP Linebackers to Watch in Philly

  • NFL Super Bowl Odds Update After Eagles OTA Injuries

  • Best Sportsbook Promo Code for Eagles vs. Cowboys Rivalry

  • Inside the Eagles Locker Room: Howie’s Next Roster Move?

  • Top 5 Veteran Free Agents Who Could Still Help Contenders

  • Packers Cheerleader Sues a Packers Player for Harassment by Flirting with Her While Already Married
    Can you believe it? A charming, dynamic cheerleader from the Green Bay Packers is "exploding" and dragging a team player to court for "unforgivable" behaviors! Abigale Licciardi – the star of the Packers Cheer Squad – has officially filed a lawsuit, and the drama behind it is stirring up NFL fans! Could this be the "biggest scandal" in Packers history? Read now to discover the "scorching" details! Abigale Licciardi, a professional cheerleader for the American football team Green Bay Packers in the NFL, is a prominent member of the Packers Cheer Squad group. She is a former student at the University of Wisconsin, where she participated in the local cheer squad and dance activities. Before that, Abigale was a dancer for NBA events and holds a bachelor's degree in communications from Marquette University. Abigale is active on social media, often sharing about games at Lambeau Field, community activities, and her role as a brand ambassador for the Packers. As part of the Packers Cheer Squad team consisting of about 47 members (combining male and female), Abigale participates in fan interactions, charity events like "Dream On 3," and performances at Packers games. She has an Instagram account (@abigalelicciardi) with posts about cheer life and a TikTok (@abigale_packers) where she shares videos about game days and dance routines. Before joining the Packers, she worked at a local event company, proving her versatility and passion. But the "nightmare" struck when Abigale got "entangled" with a Packers player! That's Mike Thornton, a backup defensive end who rarely plays for the Packers – a guy who's practically "anonymous" to fans, only playing sporadically on special teams and never a pillar. Thornton, 29 years old, has been married since 2021 to his wife, a community nurse, and they have two young children (one boy and one girl). Yet, according to Abigale's lawsuit, Thornton has been "flirting" with her recklessly, despite his happy family life! The "explosion" happened when Thornton started sending "sweet" messages to Abigale via Instagram, praising her smile and energy after performances. At first, Abigale thought it was just friendly praise from a teammate, but things quickly "crossed the line" into harassment! Thornton called her in the middle of the night – sometimes at 1-2 a.m. – to "share" about playing pressures, invite her for private dinners, and even send "suggestive" videos filmed at the gym! Abigale stated in the lawsuit: "He knows I only focus on my career and the team, but he won't stop. Those midnight calls make me anxious and stressed, severely affecting my performance!" According to insider sources, Thornton has been "stalking" Abigale since preseason, frequently "lingering" at community events she attends, and intentionally "creating situations" to approach her. Thornton's wife, upon learning, went "crazy" and threatened to break up, but the guy remains "blind"! The Packers are "shaken" by this scandal: The team management has temporarily isolated Thornton for investigation, while fans are divided – one side defends Abigale's "brave accusation," the other suspects it's a "staged script." The NFL league is also intervening, which could lead to heavy fines or removal from the roster! Abigale, with her "queen" image on TikTok and Instagram, is now becoming a "victim" of harassment – a thorny issue in the sports world! How will the court punish Thornton? And will the Packers "clean up" the team to protect their cheerleaders? Don't miss out – follow now for the next "drama" update! What do you think about this case, comment below!