Defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile led the Jacksonville Jaguars' defense to multiple franchise records in his first season at the helm. After being interviewed for multiple head-coaching positions, he ultimately returned, looking to build on last year's success.
The Jacksonville Jaguars' coaching staff has quickly transformed the aura and culture surrounding the team, with players buying into their vision for the future.
Defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile is looking to replicate the massive successes he had last season, and get his unit back atop the NFL ranks.
In his first year with the franchise, Campanile led his defense to franchise records in rushing yards allowed per game (85.6), passes defensed (102), takeaways (31), interceptions (22) and a +13 turnover differential.
This was a complete transformation from 2024's numbers, where the Jaguars ranked towards the bottom of the league in most metrics.
On Thursday, NFL analyst Greg Cosell gave Campanile high praise, calling him a "rising star."
Cosell credited Campanile for his unique schematics and ability to switch up coverages, especially on the defensive front.
He said the one thing his defenses do the best is stunts, which allows speedy rushers like Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen to attack interior linemen.
This can cause havoc for an offensive line, which has Jacksonville's top pass rushers coming at different angles and speeds.
Following last year's success, Campanile interviewed for multiple vacant head coaching positions, including the Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals, and Baltimore Ravens.
He made it the furthest with the Cardinals, reportedly finishing as a top-3 candidate for the job.
Ultimately, he returned to Jacksonville alongside fellow sought-after coordinator Grant Udinski, as the Jaguars look to continue their reign atop the AFC South.
One added boost to Campanile's defense will be former No. 2 overall pick Travis Hunter, who has plenty of history with Jacksonville's week 1 opponent.
The Cleveland Browns were the team set to draft Hunter two seasons ago, but ultimately traded down with the Jaguars, missing out on the reigning Heisman winner.
Hunter has been played primarily on the defensive side of the ball, while making appearances in certain packages as a receiver.
As one of Campanile's top three defensive backs, the DB room has become young and dynamic.
Montaric "Buster" Brown is coming off of his best season as a pro, while veteran Jourdan Lewis was recently listed as one of the best DBs in the NFL.
For Hunter, getting back on the field will not only reward the hard work and rehab he has gone through, but gives him the opportunity to make it sting against the team who was planning to take him before Jacksonville came calling.
Overall, the defense will have a big opportunity against Deshaun Watson and the Browns' offense, which has had a tumultuous offseason.
