Cowboys’ NFL dreams kindled in bowl game

While it’s unclear what kind of impression New Mexico Highlands linebacker Jordan Campbell made on NFL scouts in this past weekend’s NFLPA Collegiate Bowl, he certainly grabbed the attention of sportscasters calling the game.

Campbell drew raves with his individual effort for Herm Edwards’ American team, which lost 34-0 to Dick Vermeil’s National squad.

“He’s got exactly what you want in a linebacker — read and react,” said Bill Polian. Polian is best known for his years as an executive with the Indianapolis Colts.

“Jordan Campbell is distinguishing himself today,” said Todd McShay, who doubles as one of ESPN’s leading NFL draft experts (the other being Mel Kiper). “What a game he’s had.”

Campbell made several big tackles, including one in the Nationals’ backfield to stuff a run by Texas back Donald Monroe. That particular play got McShay going again.

“If he played like that every down ... I’ve watched games (film) at New Mexico Highlands. It’s flashes here, flashes there. Not consistent. (This is a) great opportunity for him to watch his own tape and see what happens if he brings it every single play.”

Campbell got ample face time on the nationally televised game, one of several college all-star contests designed to showcase draft-eligible players for professional scouts. A graphic had Campbell listed as the No. 41 rated outside linebacker going into the weekend.
NMHU cornerback Abdul Kanneh, who played for the winning National team, also earned the cameras’ focus when he busted up a long pass play at the American 5-yard-line, preventing a touchdown.

Campbell and Kanneh helped Eric Young’s Cowboys go 8-3 this past fall.

An estimated 70-plus scouts were on hand for the game, according to announcer Joe Tessitore, who teamed with McShay and Polian for the broadcast on ESPN2. The draft is in April.