Scouting Report: Weaknesses

• Lacks elite straight-line speed as evidenced by his 4.70 forty-yard dash, which could create challenges covering athletic tight ends and running backs.
• Coverage skills remain a work in progress, particularly when asked to match quicker receivers in man-to-man situations down the field.
• Undersized frame at 230 pounds may limit his effectiveness against power running schemes and larger offensive linemen in pass protection.
• Can be overly aggressive at times, leading to missed tackles when he attempts to deliver big hits rather than securing fundamentally sound tackles.
• Limited sample size at the highest level of competition raises questions about consistency against premier offensive talent he'll face regularly in the NFL.

Scouting Report: Summary

Campbell's path to the next level hinges on whether NFL coaching staffs can maximize his elite pass rushing instincts while addressing the coverage deficiencies that limit his three-down potential. His ability to generate pressure from the linebacker position creates immediate value in sub-packages, but his struggles in man coverage and modest athletic testing suggest he'll need creative deployment to succeed consistently. The leadership qualities he displayed at North Carolina demonstrate the football I.Q. that often translates well to the NFL's complex defensive schemes, yet his undersized frame raises legitimate questions about durability against the physical demands of pro football.

The dichotomy in Campbell's skill set creates both opportunity and risk for evaluators. While his exceptional pass rush production and tackling reliability suggest he can contribute immediately in specific roles, his coverage limitations and size concerns indicate he may struggle to earn three-down snaps early in his career. Defensive coordinators will likely view him as a situational weapon whose value depends heavily on scheme fit and usage patterns. His motor and work ethic provide optimism that he can develop the missing pieces of his game, but the gap between his pass rushing excellence and coverage struggles creates uncertainty about his ultimate ceiling.

The transition to Penn State represents both a fresh start and a crucial test for Campbell's development trajectory. His proven ability to elevate his production from freshman to sophomore year suggests he possesses the adaptability needed for continued growth, but the jump to NFL competition will test whether his instincts can overcome his physical limitations. Teams investing in Campbell are betting on his football character and pass rush upside while accepting the risk that his coverage deficiencies may limit his role. The smart money says he'll carve out a meaningful career as a specialized pass rusher, though his path to becoming a complete linebacker remains uncertain.