2021 NFL Draft: Linebacker Rankings
The 2021 NFL Draft boasts a solid class of linebackers, with several players possessing the potential to be impact starters at the next level. Here's a look at the top prospects at the position:
Tier 1:
- Micah Parsons (Penn State): Parsons is arguably the most talented linebacker in the draft, possessing a rare blend of athleticism, instincts, and playmaking ability. He's a dominant force against the run and can effectively blitz and drop into coverage.
- Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (Notre Dame): Owusu-Koramoah is a versatile linebacker who can play both inside and outside. He's an explosive athlete with excellent instincts and coverage skills. He's a bit undersized but compensates with his athleticism and playmaking ability.
Tier 2:
- Zaven Collins (Tulsa): Collins is a big, athletic linebacker with good instincts and tackling ability. He excels in coverage, displaying impressive range and ball skills.
- Jamin Davis (Kentucky): Davis is a physical, hard-hitting linebacker with a nose for the ball. He's a strong run defender and has the athleticism to cover tight ends and running backs.
- Baron Browning (Ohio State): Browning is a versatile linebacker who can play both inside and outside. He's an explosive athlete with good instincts and tackling ability.
Tier 3:
- Jabril Cox (LSU): Cox is a smart and instinctive linebacker with good coverage skills. He's a bit undersized but makes up for it with his instincts and playmaking ability.
- Chazz Surratt (North Carolina): Surratt is a physical linebacker with good instincts and tackling ability. He's a strong run defender and has the athleticism to cover tight ends and running backs.
- Nick Niemann (Iowa): Niemann is a hard-hitting linebacker with good instincts and tackling ability. He's a strong run defender and has the potential to develop into a well-rounded player.
Beyond the Top 10:
- Pete Werner (Ohio State): Werner is a versatile linebacker with good instincts and tackling ability.
- Odafe Oweh (Penn State): Oweh is a raw but athletic linebacker with a high ceiling.
- Quinton Bohanna (LSU): Bohanna is a big, physical linebacker who excels in run support.
- Christian Harris (Alabama): Harris is a talented linebacker with good instincts and tackling ability.
This list is just a starting point, and the rankings are fluid and subject to change. As the pre-draft process unfolds, teams will conduct their own evaluations and players' stock will fluctuate. It's important to remember that athleticism, size, and instincts are key factors to look for when evaluating linebackers in the NFL Draft.