That’s an opinion that also resonates at Campanile, as first-year head coach Liam Coen’s defensive coordinator had high praise for Newsome after the trade was made official.
“Yeah, I’m just excited about Greg. I think he’s multi-skilled and he’s done a good job; watching him on the crosstape, he’s shown that he has a lot to offer. And over the years watching him, I think he’s got very good man-to-man skills. I think he’s done a good job on his own, competitive at the point of attack. I’m very excited about him. I think he’ll add a lot to us,” Campanile said.
Newsome has recorded fewer tackles and fewer pass deflections this season than Campbell, whom the Jaguars sent to Cleveland in exchange for their new cornerback, but has a higher grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF). Newsome graduated this season with a 63.9 overall defensive mark (67.6 run defense; 62.1 coverage), while Campbell finished with a 56.6 overall defensive mark (87.7 run defense; 51.1 coverage). As can be expected from those coverage grades, Campbell has been targeted 39 times and allowed three touchdowns, while Newsome has been targeted 26 times and allowed no touchdowns.
“We always value that here, guys that are versatile, he can definitely do that. And like I said, just seeing him in the zone, seeing him in person, he’s just competitive and he’s played well against some of the best players in this league. That’s what excites us about him,” Campanile said.