Iowa Hawkeyes’ Jack Campbell No. 2 on ESPN’s inside linebackers big board

We know Jack Campbell was the best run-stopping linebacker in the Power Five. We know Jack Campbell was labeled as one of 247Sports’ draft risers for the 2023 NFL draft. Now, we know that ESPN’s Mel Kiper has Jack Campbell listed as the No. 2 inside linebacker in the entire country.

The leader of Iowa’s defense being this highly rated by one of the most renowned draft analysts says a lot about how talented Campbell is, but it also shouldn’t be much of a surprise to those that know and follow the Hawkeyes.

Campbell led the Iowa defense with 143 tackles last season. His high tally of tackles proves he doesn’t just play between the tackles. His length at 6-foot-5 and his speed allow him to play sideline to sideline against running backs, tight ends, and, at times, run with receivers down the middle of the field between the hash marks.

Campbell also tends to always find himself around the ball. That isn’t by accident. Last year he had his hands on interceptions, fumble recoveries, and even became no stranger to the end zone a couple of times. Instincts and being around the football aren’t coached, but something natural and Campbell can rely on that.

Campbell has every chance to climb up into the early rounds of the 2023 NFL draft with another season like he posted in 2021. With his fellow linebackers Jestin Jacobs and Seth Benson also returning alongside him, he will be able to play freely and confidently on a defense that always has loads of talent.

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Story originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire