CBS Sports writer Ryan Wilson unveiled his latest mock draft, projecting the San Francisco 49ers to select a pass rusher who hasn't frequently been linked to the team—Alabama's Jihaad Campbell.
"Campbell is, in a word, explosive," Wilson wrote. "He can rush the pass from the edge, or play off-ball linebacker and he'll look like the best player on the field from either position."
In 2024, Campbell led Alabama with 117 tackles and recorded five sacks, adding an interception, two passes defensed, and two forced fumbles.
However, is the 11th overall pick too early for Campbell? Pro Football Network analyst Jacob Infante recently had the 49ers selecting him in the second round at No. 43 overall.
"Jihaad Campbell is a versatile hybrid linebacker who can make game-changing plays rushing the quarterback, playing as a true stack backer, and dropping into coverage," wrote The Draft Network's Keith Sanchez.
While The Draft Network projects Campbell as a Day 2 pick, Wilson believes he has first-round potential and could be a difference-maker in Robert Saleh's defense.
"He's one of the best athletes in this class, and the scary part is he's just scratching the surface; he's going to get bigger, stronger and faster -- he won't turn 21 until February," Wilson noted.
Draft prospects' stock could significantly rise or fall with the NFL Scouting Combine still ahead. Plenty could change before the 49ers are officially on the clock in April.
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