The NFC East rivalry between the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys has always been one of football’s best, and this year it carries an added layer of intrigue with the arrival of two rookies who know each other better than most opponents ever will.
Jihaad Campbell and Tyler Booker were teammates at IMG Academy and later at Alabama, experiencing the challenges of practices, games, and championships together. Now, they will share something new: the opening kickoff of the 2025 season as division rivals.
Ahead of the draft, Nick Saban had nothing but praise for both players. He called Campbell a first round inside guy with the ability to also be an edge rusher, highlighting his rare speed and range. On Booker, Saban emphasized his leadership and that he was the type of anchor a locker room could rally around.
Last week, seven Bama alums heard their name called at the 2025 NFL Draft! 🏈 Congrats to our draftees, Tyler Booker, Jihaad Campbell, Jalen Milroe, Malachi Moore, Que Robinson, Robbie Ouzts & Tim Smith, as well as free agent signees CJ Dippre, Kneeland Hibbett &James Burnip. 🎉 pic.twitter.com/c8iVBTOa9g
— University of Alabama National Alumni Association (@UAAlumniAssoc) April 30, 2025
Booker became the Cowboys’ highest drafted offensive lineman since Tyron Smith when he was selected 12th overall. A two time All SEC guard at Alabama, he quickly established himself as the kind of enforcer Dallas desperately needed to replace now retired Zack Martin. Booker has always been known for his ferocity in the trenches, and his debut will come against one of the deepest defensive lines in football.
Campbell, meanwhile, went 31st overall to the Eagles after the team traded up for him. Philadelphia plans to move him inside and out, using his athleticism as both a coverage linebacker and a situational pass rusher. His assignment in Week 1 is clear, find ways to disrupt Prescott and make life difficult for Booker on the inside.
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