2025 NFL Draft: Scouting the Linebackers

The best linebackers don’t chase plays. They end them.

This class has throwback toughness with modern speed. Some of these dudes were built for the box, others live in coverage — and a few do both like it’s nothing. They’re the heartbeat of a defense, and they’re coming in hot.

We’re ranking the top linebackers in the 2025 draft based on tape, tools, and traits — no fluff, just football.

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1. Jihaad Campbell (Alabama)

Grade: 1st Round

Jihaad Campbell is a physical, athletic linebacker with excellent sideline-to-sideline range. His speed and ability to cover ground quickly are standout traits, as shown by his combine performance. He has a natural feel for the game and is effective at diagnosing plays, particularly in run defense. Campbell’s dynamic ability as a blitzer allows him to create disruption, and he shows promise in coverage, particularly with his ability to track the ball and break up passes. However, his off-ball instincts are still developing, and he struggles at times with peripheral vision, running himself into blockers. Tackling can also be inconsistent, especially when attacking high. Despite these weaknesses, his explosive physical tools and leadership potential make him a first-round talent, though his medical history will be a key factor in his final grade. His versatility and dynamic playmaking ability make him a top linebacker prospect with potential for immediate impact in the NFL.

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2. Carson Schwesinger (UCLA)

Grade: 1st-2nd Round

Carson Schwesinger is a highly active linebacker with an impressive motor. He plays fast and aggressive, with the ability to read and react quickly to plays. His vision and anticipation allow him to flow to the football and make stops all over the field. Schwesinger’s tackling technique is solid, though he could improve his ability to break down and wrap up in tighter spaces. He’s an excellent coverage linebacker, with the ability to mirror running backs and tight ends and to drop into coverage. His lack of ideal size and length sometimes affects his ability to take on blockers, and he can struggle against bigger offensive linemen. However, Schwesinger’s high football IQ, leadership qualities, and non-stop effort give him the tools to be a reliable NFL linebacker. He’s likely to excel on special teams early in his career, with potential to start as he develops.