The Lions did welcome back former Lions linebacker Jarrad Davis, after failing to re-sign him last year, and signed LB Chris Board to a one-year deal as well. 2022 NFL Draft Linebacker And while Simpson, Campbell and Sanders are clearly the top off-ball linebackers in the draft, none is a candidate to do it. 2022 NFL Draft Linebackers It will be interesting to see if Allen can build on his resume now that he some additional experience. Top 3 LB prospects: 1. He's listed as the third best outside linebacker on ESPN's Best Available. Hes a sure-tackler who can carve out a role on special teams and was known for his leadership. ** - denotes 2024 prospect. 21+ (18+ NH/WY). Boye Mafe is a linebacker/edge rusher that is projected to be an early round draft pick. Most of the OLBs in the scouting reports are either middle linebackers in 4-3s or OLBs in 3-4 the skillset is often pretty close. When looking at the remaining needs for the current Detroit Lions roster, linebacker has to be near the top of the list. Simpson (6-2, 235 pounds) is a hybrid linebacker who excels as a pass defender. The Alabama defensive back led the Crimson Tide in tackles in 2022. NFL draft 4/27/22: In speaking to some team sources, they have Tindall as a late-round or priority undrafted free agent. Lloyd needs to return to his 2019 form to have a shot at the pros. Utah. Like running backs on offense, it takes a lot for an off-ball linebacker to crack the top of the first round on defense. Hes got the tape to back it up. He scored an unofficial 9.98 RAS at the Combine out of a possible 10.00. 2022 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Linebackers - PFF After an injury to Dylan Moses, Harris was thrust into a larger role and turned in an impressive freshman season for Alabama in 2019. Jack Campbell: +250. Christian Harris, Alabama (third round) 2. Michigan linebacker Mike Morris (90) during the first half of the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football semifinal playoff game against TCU, Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022, in By choosing I Accept, you consent to our use of cookies and other tracking technologies. Thompson had 20 sacks in three seasons with the Lumberjacks. Chase down running backs and wide receivers. 4/27/22: Clark worked out really well at the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine, showing excellent size to go along with quickness and athleticism. He can cover tight ends in space, and he racked up 10 sacks his first two seasons at Clemson as a blitzer. McFadden is a sleeper who could be a backup and special teams contributor. 2022 NFL draft The Posts Ryan Dunleavy gives his top 10 linebackers in this years NFL draft, based on evaluations and conversations with people around the league: 1. 6. The 2022 NFL draft is almost here, and the Chicago Bears have plenty of needs to address. 2022 NFL Draft: Inside Linebacker Rankings 1. 2023 NFL Draft Odds: First Linebacker Drafted in First Round Prediction Drew Sanders: -170. At the Combine he had a vertical jump of 36.5 and a broad jump of 127. Volume of career productivity is remarkable: 409 tackles and 13 forced fumbles in 60 games (48 starts) over two seasons at safety and two at linebacker. Leo Chenal, Wisconsin. He played well in 2020 with 86 tackles, 2.5 sacks, two interceptions and six passes broken up. Sign up for our newsletter and get every update delivered to your inbox! A bit of an older prospect, Abdullah is still developing in coverage. In the shortened 2020 season, Bernard recorded 55 tackles with 3.5 sacks, an interception and two passes defended. NFL draft LB preview: Detroit Lions hit big with 2022 6th-round picks This has become a tricky position to project considering the differences of how theyre used in a 4-3 scheme vs. a 3-4. 2023 NFL Draft: SFA Linebacker BJ Thompson Selected in 5th Round By Kansas City. A three-year starter for the Panthers, Dennis is a bit undersized. Nakobe Dean did not participate in the NFL Combine, so he is relying on his existing tape and potentially pro day to get teams interested. He uses quick feet, a flexible frame and unusually successful recovery balance to slink into playmaking positions in the run gameHis slender frame will get knocked and he needs to craft a more repeatable rush, but he is competitive and savvy. 2022 NFL If he doesn't go in the first round, Lloyd should at least be a high second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. The crown jewel of the 2022 linebacker class, Lloyd proved to be a star in the making during his time at Utah. Linebackers Drafted in the 2023 NFL Draft He ran a 4.87 in the 40-yard dash, jumped a 36.5 in the vertical jump, and posted a 117 in the broad jump. 4/27/22: McFadden recorded 77 tackles, three passes defended and 6.5 sacks in 2021. He has the tools physically, but he did not always play up to them during his collegiate career. All rights reserved. A fast riser thanks to a strong showing at the NFL combine, Campbell showed off some impressive athleticism. Please check your email for a confirmation. 2022 NFL Linebacker Rankings and Tiers - PFF NFL Draft He's thoughtful in his rushing schemes, and he has the capability to make impact plays from time to time. He is listed as the fourth best prospect on Latest 2022 NFL Draft big board: Linebackers | Top Ten Tuesday The departure of Bobby Okereke in free agency will hurt the room, but they did retain E.J. At worst, Chenal is an early-down run specialist in the NFL that can also sub in as a pass rusher. With only one year of starting experience, Sanders spent most of his time playing the MIKE role. Check back for more photos and highlights of the latest Falcons draft pick. Alabama defensive back DeMarcco Hellams (2), linebacker Christian Harris (8) and defensive lineman Byron Young (47) gang tackle Mercer running back Brandon Marshall (8) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 11, 2021, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt), Alabama defensive back DeMarcco Hellams (2) celebrates an interception against Georgia during the second half of the Southeastern Conference championship NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021, in Atlanta. NFL.com Overview: "Undersized edge defender who plays in a slant-based scheme that makes evaluating his three-down value more difficult. Deng declared for the 2022 NFL Draft, but trying to return to California on an injury redshirt return probably would have been the best move to try to improve his draft stock. Here are the 2022 NFL Draft linebacker rankings. 2. If I had to guess, Andersen should hear his name called in the second-third round range and has the capability of playing a two-way role at the next level. The 2022 NFL Draft is fast approaching and teams are zeroing in on their needs for the draft. Christian Harris leads the 2022 NFL Draft He's projected to be a starter at some point in his career, but he may take a little longer to get to that point. 2022 NFL Draft The 11 best linebackers in the 2023 NFL Draft, ranked The inside linebackers in the draft that more often get drafted high are really going to be Middle Linebackers in a 4-3. 7/17/21: Henry has been a tough run defender in the SEC over the past two seasons. He spent two seasons working as the MIKE and was a team captain for two seasons at Iowa. At times, he can play too quickly and become undisciplined, but he has the skills that are simply too hard to pass up for linebacker-needy teams. However, there are a few guys who are versatile enough to thrive wherever you place them in. 7/17/21: Landman was a solid and productive player for Colorado in 2020. He is listed as the second best linebacker on NFL.com and the best inside linebacker prospect on ESPN's Best Available. He can track down a runner or receiver with great speed and strength. Domann was decent, but not especially impressive, at the Senior Bowl. Linebackers Drafted in the 2022 NFL Draft Nakobe Dean, Georgia (fourth round) 5. At the Combine, he ran the 40-yard dash in 4.54 seconds, had a broad jump of 120, and jumped a vertical jump of 35.5. 2018-None. Call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelpline.ma.org (MA), Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). But in a middling draft for linebackers, they might be better off casting their net for a Rodriguez or Houston late. He has the size, length and range to play on all three downs but is still growing into his game. One of the big winners from Senior Bowl. He then played well in California's shortened 2020 season. Linebackers 1-2 and eight quarterbacks inside the top 100 players. It is highly recommended that you use the latest versions of a supported browser in order to receive an optimal viewing experience. 7/17/21: In 2020, Luketa played well next to Brandon Smith, and they formed one of the nation's better linebacker tandems. 2022 NFL Draft Right now, there are two linebackers projected to go in the first round in the upcoming 2022 NFL Draft. Web90.4. Kingsley Enagbare has a forceful demeanor and great tackling power that bode well for an NFL team. * - denotes 2023 prospect. Improving his pass coverage and production in pass defense as a senior would help him. 7/17/21: In 2020, Walker was a steady linebacker next to Monty Rice and did a solid job of defending the run. The repair is likely to force him to miss the 2022 season and will cause him to slide in the 2022 NFL Draft, but he could turn into a mid-round steal for the franchise that can be patient. NFL Media analyst. He wasn't as good in 2020, but he still flashed on occasion. Which 2022 NFL Draft prospects fully showed out at Lucas Oil Stadium? With three years of starting experience, Overshwon is a bit on the smaller side for linebackers, but he moves well and has a quick first step. In 2021, he had 129 tackles, four forced fumbles, three sacks and two passes defended. THE ROSTER:Lions depth chart for 2023 season entering NFL draft. Projected round: 1st. Could provide nickel pass rush on the edge and be a core special teams player. They think Clark could be a more athletic and more physical version of Zach Cunningham, who led the NFL in tackles early in his career. On one hand, he averaged 11 tackles per game in the last two seasons and has a nose for the football. 2022: Linebackers NFL Draft Head LBs on the roster: Alex Anzalone, Derrick Barnes, Malcolm Rodriguez, James Houston, Julian Okwara, Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Anthony Pittman. Sporting News presents its third big board for the 2022 NFL Draft, updated with two dynamic pass-rushers at Nos. He had 87 tackles, 2.5 sacks and four passes broken up on the year. 'GMFB' weighs in, Ohio State wide receiver Chris Olave interview | 2022 NFL Scouting Combine, Alabama wide receiver Jameson Williams interview | 2022 NFL Scouting Combine, Saints head coach Dennis Allen interview | 2022 NFL Scouting Combine, Saints general manager Mickey Loomis interview | 2022 NFL Scouting Combine, Saints VP/assistant general manager Jeff Ireland interview | 2022 NFL Scouting Combine, LSU offensive lineman Chasen Hines interview | 2022 NFL Scouting Combine, LSU offensive lineman Ed Ingram interview | 2022 NFL Scouting Combine, Pittsburgh quarterback Kenny Pickett interview | 2022 NFL Scouting Combine. linebackers Doesnt take the bait because avid film study has made him good at diagnosing plays. 4/27/22: In 2021, Dean showed dangerous blitzing ability while coming up with some clutch plays for Georgia. He lacks some physicality, though, and tends to play into opposing linemen rather than through them. Considering last years group was one of the worst-performing units in the NFL, Id expect the Lions to target a linebacker early in this years draft. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (CO/IL/IN/LA/MD/MI/NJ/OH/PA/TN/WV/WY), 1-800-NEXT STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS/NH), 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), visit OPGR.org (OR), or 1-888-532-3500(VA). In 2021, Morgan recorded 101 tackles, .5 sacks, an interception and three passes broken up. Sanders was a unanimous All-American in 2022. Irrelevant of the 2023 NFL Draft! Linebackers He will occasionally get swallowed up by blocks in the run game or get bullied in coverage by bigger tight ends. He has received third-day grades for the 2022 NFL Draft as a backup and special teams contributor. Here's how Twitter reacted to the Colts drafting CB Darius Rush. 2023 NFL Draft: SFA Linebacker BJ Thompson Selected in 5th Round By Kansas City. Mr. Speed is an asset. A four-year starter splitting between Tennessee and Alabama, TooToo is always around the ball and there are few lapses in assignment, but hes not overly athletic or rangy. Dean plays fast as a sideline-to-sideline run defender who can also come with splash plays thanks to very good instincts and intelligence. After coming to California from the junior college ranks, Deng had a productive 2019 season and was a solid run defender. Muma could be a mid-round pick who develops into being a starter. ILB. Vasha Hunt/Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. Not only that, but most of those guys tested extremely well at the combine or at their pro days. Harris is fast, athletic and strong. All Rights Reserved, 2021 Season Stats: 66 Solo Tackles | 8 Sacks | 1 Forced Fumble | 4 INT, 2021 Season Stats: 36 Solo Tackles | 6 Sacks | 2 Forced Fumbles | 2 INT, 2021 Season Stats: 45 Solo Tackles | 5.5 Sacks | 2 Forced Fumbles | 0 INT, 2021 Season Stats: 78 Solo Tackles | 5.5 Sacks | 2 Forced Fumbles | 1 INT, 2021 Season Stats: 85 Solo Tackles | 1.5 Sacks | 0 Forced Fumbles | 3 INT, 2021 Season Stats: 26 Solo Tackles | 7 Sacks | 1 Forced Fumble | 0 INT, 2021 Season Stats: 23 Solo Tackles | 5 Sacks | 1 Forced Fumbles | 1 INT, 2021 Season Stats: 44 Solo Tackles | 9 Sacks | 4 Forced Fumbles | 0 INT, 2021 Season Stats: 23 Solo Tackles | 7 Sacks | 1 Forced Fumbles | 0 INT, 2021 Season Stats: 29 Solo Tackles | 4.5 Sacks | 1 Forced Fumble | 0 INT. Clark profiles as an early backup and special-teams performer but has projectable upside that could make him a starting inside linebacker within his first three seasons.". He's a wildly athletic rusher who blends get-off, stride length and flexibility into one alarming package for tackles trying to slow him down. Does everything well enough stops the run, covers the pass, blitzes but nothing great. Wisconsins Nate Herbig, Washington States Daiyan Henley and Oregons Noah Sewell, the younger brother of Lions offensive tackle Penei Sewell, are potential Day 2 picks, while Graham is the most highly regarded local prospect at the position. Though he does not have the elite 4.4 speed that some of the other linebacker prospects in this class have, he is still an elite all-around athlete, and that much is obvious when you see him take the field. With only one linebacker signed beyond this season, the Detroit Lions should be in the market to to add through the draft. Quay Walker, Georgia - Round Grade: 2. Trenton Simpson, Clemson A two-year starter, Simpson has the length, speed and range for todays NFL. Walker also could benefit from playing behind an excellent defensive line. He might lack measurables, but he has the toughness and technique to see a boost in his performance once his play becomes more proactive.". 4/27/22: Team sources think Walker's play was a bit off in early going of 2021, but he finished the season playing really well. 7/17/21: McFadden was a solid run defender for the Hoosiers in 2020 and 2019. Ron Jenkins/Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. Two-time Butkus Award winner as nations best linebacker in high school and college. At the Combine, he ran a blazing 4.44 in the 40-yard dash, has a vertical jump of 34.5, and a broad jump of 132. Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot stated that you need a four-down strategy for Day 3 picks, and Hellams fits into that vision.
