A career performance against Tennessee on Saturday earned Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell the Bronko Nagurski National Defensive Player of the Week honors.
Since 2001, the Football Writers Association of America has chosen a Bronko Nagurski National Defensive Player of the Week weekly throughout the regular season. The FWAA also awards the Bronko Nagurski Trophy to the nation’s best defensive player. Former Alabama linebacker Will Anderson Jr. has received the award for the past two seasons.
With Trezmen Marshall out due to a rib injury against Arkansas, Campbell was awarded his second season start. Campbell’s other start came against Mississippi State when Deontae Lawson was held out due to injury.
The New Jersey native recorded a career-high 10 tackles, which tied for second-most behind Lawson’s 12 tackles. Campbell also scooped up a fumble and ran it back 24 yards for a touchdown that ultimately locked up a 34-20 victory over Tennessee.
Campbell helped lead the Crimson Tide defense in holding the Vols to 129 total yards and 33 rushing yards in the second half. Alabama’s defense shut out the Vols in the second half, helping the Crimson Tide complete the comeback victory.
In addition to the fumble recovery, Campbell has recorded 39 tackles in seven games, putting him tied for sixth on the team.
As well as being selected as the Bronko Nagurski National Defensive Player of the Week, Campbell’s efforts on Saturday also earned him SEC Co-Defensive Player of the Week.
So far this season, Campbell has played mostly a backup role, but Saturday’s performance could earn him some additional playing time as he is too talented to keep on the sidelines.
Don’t miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
