The Submit’s Ryan Dunleavy offers his prime 10 linebackers on this 12 months’s NFL draft, primarily based on evaluations and conversations with folks across the league:
1. Devin Lloyd, 6-3, 237 kilos
Lanky playmaker is one in every of most secure picks in first spherical. Three straight seasons with double-digit tackles for loss, together with 22, in addition to seven sacks and 4 interceptions (two for touchdowns), in 2021. Closes gaps in a flash.
2. Nakobe Dean, Georgia, 5-11, 229 kilos
Doesn’t match up bodily in comparison with others on this listing, so he may get swallowed up until his fast instincts assist him beat blockers to the spot. Two-time Butkus Award winner as nation’s finest linebacker in highschool and school.
3. Chad Muma, Wyoming, 6-3, 239 kilos
Performed two years behind Logan Wilson, a key cog in Bengals’ Tremendous Bowl run. Second in FBS with 142 tackles — not lacking many alternatives — final season. Good at studying quarterbacks’ eyes to get a soar on undercutting throws.
4. Christian Harris, Alabama, 6-0, 226 kilos
Began 40 video games over final three seasons (together with 12 as a real freshman) and performed his finest in bowl video games. Does every part effectively sufficient — stops the run, covers the cross, blitzes — however nothing nice. Velocity is an asset.
5. Quay Walker, Georgia, 6-4, 241 kilos
One-year starter whose athleticism pops, however who nonetheless wants improvement, together with in weight room. In depth particular groups expertise. Doesn’t take the bait as a result of avid movie examine has made him good at diagnosing performs.
6. Channing Tindall, Georgia, 6-2, 230 kilos
Third Georgia linebacker on this listing by no means began a recreation in school, however completed third on loaded protection in tackles in 2021. Expenses downhill in search of large hit. Credited with zero profession passes defended.
7. Troy Andersen, Montana State, 6-3, 243 kilos
Led crew in dashing and passing as a quarterback in 2018 earlier than shifting to protection. Playground chase-the-ball type is enjoyable to look at, however he wants self-discipline and refinement. Ought to be core particular groups participant.
8. Leo Chenal, Wisconsin, 6-3, 250 kilos
Competitiveness engrained by rising up with 15 siblings. Bench-pressed 420 kilos, cleaned 385 kilos and neared 21 miles per hour working, in line with The Athletic. Had 115 tackles (18.5 for loss) in 2021.
9. Mike Rose, Iowa State, 6-4, 245 kilos
Made 41 tackles for loss in 49 profession video games (all begins). Finest season was 2020, when he was Massive 12 Defensive Participant of the 12 months and grabbed 5 interceptions. Reacts shortly to offset less-than-ideal burst.
10. Malcolm Rodriguez, Oklahoma State, 5-11, 232 kilos
Quantity of profession productiveness is outstanding: 409 tackles and 13 compelled fumbles in 60 video games (48 begins) over two seasons at security and two at linebacker. Measurement-and-speed package deal received’t scare you.
Late Riser
Tindall: Didn’t make a ton of performs for Georgia, however then once more neither did possible top-two general decide Travon Walker. Might present nickel cross rush on the sting and be a core particular groups participant.
Falling Quick
Damone Clark, LSU, 6-2, 239 kilos: Underwent spinal fusion surgical procedure final month to appropriate a herniated disk, placing his rookie season in jeopardy. Led SEC with 135 tackles in bounce-back season after shedding beginning job in 2020. True check of management.
Small-Faculty Surprise
Andersen: Completed second in class historical past with 33 dashing touchdowns and was 2021 Massive Sky Defensive Participant of the 12 months. One of many large winners from Senior Bowl. Excessive-school valedictorian and finalist for Campbell Trophy (educational Heisman) in school.
Post a Comment