2025 Draft Class: LB

Originally posted by OnTheClock:
Discuss. We absolutely need another baller like Dre and someone to develop at that 2/3 insurance.

Originally posted by adrianlesnar:
What we do with Greenlaw will be telling, especially with the comments about needing more speed on defense. If Greenlaw walks, I wouldn't rule out Jihaad Campbell at 11

Originally posted by Hysterikal:

Originally posted by adrianlesnar:
What we do with Greenlaw will be telling, especially with the comments about needing more speed on defense. If Greenlaw walks, I wouldn't rule out Jihaad Campbell at 11

Good player but hate that idea.

Originally posted by adrianlesnar:

Originally posted by Hysterikal:

Originally posted by adrianlesnar:
What we do with Greenlaw will be telling, especially with the comments about needing more speed on defense. If Greenlaw walks, I wouldn't rule out Jihaad Campbell at 11

Good player but hate that idea.

Itd be a no thank you from me too, but if greenlaw walks and let's say they put his line for where he's drafted at 14.5, I'm taking the under (earlier pick)

The 2025 NFL Draft linebacker class is shaping up to feature a mix of versatile athletes, instinctive playmakers, and high-upside talents. Based on current evaluations and performances through the 2024 college football season, several names stand out as the top prospects at the linebacker position. Here's a look at some of the best linebacker prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft:

Jalon Walker, Georgia

Walker has emerged as a dynamic force for the Bulldogs, showcasing explosiveness off the edge and growth as an off-ball linebacker. His combination of twitch, power, and versatility—highlighted by 6.5 sacks and 52 tackles in 2024—makes him a potential first-round pick. Scouts compare his athletic profile to players like Anthony Barr, though he's still refining his instincts in coverage.

Jihaad Campbell, Alabama

Campbell's impact at Alabama has been undeniable, with 108 tackles, 5 sacks, and 2 interceptions in 2024. His ability to blitz, cover, and tackle in the box stands out. At 6'3" and 244 pounds, he brings ideal size and speed, making him a three-down linebacker prospect who could sneak into the first round.

Barrett Carter, Clemson

Carter returned to Clemson after a down 2023 season and reestablished himself in 2024 with 82 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and 7 pass breakups. His high football IQ, sideline-to-sideline range, and coverage skills make him a fit as a modern weak-side linebacker, though his smaller frame (6'1", 230 pounds) might limit him against bigger NFL linemen.

Demetrius Knight Jr., South Carolina
A transfer from Charlotte, Knight has impressed with his downhill aggression and blitz timing. In 2023 at Charlotte, he posted 96 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 3 interceptions, showing off his explosive first step. His 2024 season with the Gamecocks will be key, but his physical tools suggest a riser in the draft process.

Danny Stutsman, Oklahoma
Stutsman's production is elite—104 tackles, 16 TFLs, and 3 sacks in 2023, followed by a strong 2024 with 78 tackles. At 6'4" and 241 pounds, he combines size, burst, and a relentless motor. While not the most fluid in coverage, his toughness and nose for the ball project him as a Day 2 pick with three-down potential.

Other notable prospects include:

Carson Schwesinger, UCLA: A redshirt junior with a breakout 2024 (113 tackles), offering size and tackling prowess.
Chris Paul Jr., Ole Miss: A complete linebacker with range and explosiveness, potentially the most polished in the class.
Harold Perkins Jr., LSU: A high-ceiling talent (6'1", 220 pounds) whose 2024 injury clouds his stock, but his speed and blitzing ability keep him in the conversation for Rounds 1-2.

Jay Higgins, Iowa: A tackling machine (141 tackles in 2024) with instincts, though his athleticism may cap his ceiling.

Smael Mondon Jr., Georgia: An athletic freak (6'3", 225 pounds) with elite speed and length, still developing consistency.
This class lacks a clear top-10 lock like some past years, but it's deep with players who can contribute early as rotational pieces or grow into starters. The NFL Combine (starting late February 2025) and pre-draft workouts will clarify their rankings, especially for prospects like Walker, Campbell, and Carter, who could climb into Round 1 with strong showings. Keep an eye on how teams value their versatility—many of these linebackers excel in hybrid roles, blending coverage and pass-rushing skills, which is increasingly critical in today's NFL.

Originally posted by adrianlesnar:
What we do with Greenlaw will be telling, especially with the comments about needing more speed on defense. If Greenlaw walks, I wouldn't rule out Jihaad Campbell at 11

Originally posted by Hysterikal:

Originally posted by adrianlesnar:

Originally posted by Hysterikal:

Originally posted by adrianlesnar:
What we do with Greenlaw will be telling, especially with the comments about needing more speed on defense. If Greenlaw walks, I wouldn't rule out Jihaad Campbell at 11

Good player but hate that idea.

Itd be a no thank you from me too, but if greenlaw walks and let's say they put his line for where he's drafted at 14.5, I'm taking the under (earlier pick)

I just think Lynch could rely on Saleh taking a player like Carter or Higgins later on in the draft and forming a solid to good LBer out of them. Rather than taking a LBer at a premium spot in the draft where we rarely draft. It's why I'm fully expecting a OT, DT or DE.