Having quality linebacker play is sometimes the key to leveling up a defense. One of the key differences for the Eagles from 2023 to 2024 was Zack Baun balling out in the middle of Vic Fangio’s unit. There is plenty of debate about linebacker value in the draft. Can teams find mid round guys to plug and play or do you need to take big swings on elite talent? Off-Ball linebackers aren’t usually going in the first round, and usually the ones who are have some upside as pass rushers. This linebacker class has some talent, but the off-ball group is one of the thinner positions of the year. Here are the top players.
1) Jihaad Campbell, Alabama
If you don’t include Jalon Walker (and I don’t!)Jihaad Campbell is the only off-ball linebacker in this class that is definitely a first round player. His athleticism alone is worth taking a bet on and his flashes as a multi-faceted defender are even more of a sell.
Campbell was deployed all over the place in the Alabama defense over the last two seasons. He quarterbacked the defense at linebacker, but the Tide also asked him to rush off the edge in passing situations as well. His burst, bend, and wingspan allowed him to thrive when rushing the passer.
He has moments of brilliance as a linebacker. He is aggressive, which combined with his athleticism can lead to amazing plays. His instincts are still developing and there are moments where he can guess wrong and end up out of position. He is not the biggest or strongest player, which can prove to be an obstacle to hurdle as well. Campbell is so, so talented however and could be a weapon in the right defense willing to deploy him properly.
NFL Comparison: Daryl Washington, Arizona Cardinals
2) Demetrius Knight Junior, South Carolina
Demetrius Knight played at the college level for six seasons at three different schools. At 25 years old, he is among the most senior prospects in the class. That all being said, his game is certainly NFL ready.
Knight doesn’t have any standout athletic traits. He is well built, moves well, and is adequately strong. What stands out is his patience, refined instincts, and high level of physicality. He is just a very smart, very reliable player. He will not make a ton of wow plays, but won’t make many mistakes either.
Due to his age, it’s possible he is maxed out as a player. That being said, he will help an NFL defense immediately as a solid contributor.
NFL Comparison: Jerod Mayo, New England Patriots
3) Carson Schwesinger, UCLA
In only one year as a starter, Carson Schwesinger ascended to being one of the best linebackers in the country. The redshirt junior stuffed the staff sheet on his way to being a first team all-American and it’s likely he hears his name called early in the NFL draft.
What stands out about Schwesinger is he rarely guesses wrong. He is a very good athlete, but not elite. His play speed is high because he seems to always know where the ball is going. He is fearless attacking the line of scrimmage and does a great job flowing in coverage as well.
Schwesinger’s biggest concern might be his size. While he measured in at a health 242 at the combine, he played in the 220s at UCLA and it showed. Schwesinger got washed out against the run if he wasn’t able to outmaneuver linemen. He will need to play stronger or prove he can play bigger to be an every down player at the NFL level.
NFL Comparison: Payton Wilson, Pittsburgh Steelers
The Rest
4) Danny Stutsman, Oklahoma
5) Jeffrey Bassa, Oregon
6) Smael Mondon Junior, Georgia
7) Barrett Carter, Clemson
8) Kobe King, Penn State
9) Chris Paul Junior, Ole Miss
10) Jack Kiser, Notre Dame
