The 2024 NFL Draft linebacker class is an underrated group with genuine NFL talent, particularly at the top, highlighted by players like Payton Wilson and Edgerrin Cooper. Today's analysis will center on the top-graded off-ball linebackers according to Football Scout 365's NFL Draft player grades.

This evaluation incorporates each player's pass rush, run defense, and pass coverage grades, along with their snap alignment totals. This detailed assessment aims to clarify where they might best fit in the NFL. Are they true off-ball inside linebackers, or do they exhibit the versatility of hybrid linebackers who can be utilized across multiple defensive formations?

How We Scout The Linebacker Position

Scouting linebackers in the NFL requires evaluating a player's size, speed, athleticism, instincts, and versatility.

Below is a list of critical components we use to grade the LB position during the NFL Draft process. Every LB receives a grade on a scale of 1-10 for each of the below components during the scouting process. Once each player component is graded, we attach a final grade to indicate where the player stands before entering the NFL Draft, and then we attach a ceiling grade based on future potential.

Here are some key factors to consider when scouting a linebacker:

• Size: A linebacker needs to have the size to take on blockers and tackle ball carriers. This includes their ability to generate power at the point of attack, maintain leverage, and finish tackles.
  

• Speed and Agility: A linebacker must be fast and agile enough to cover running backs and tight ends in pass coverage. This includes their ability to change direction quickly, accelerate off the snap, and pursue ball carriers.
  

• Coverage Ability: A linebacker needs to be able to cover running backs and tight ends in pass coverage. This includes their ability to read and react to the quarterback's movements, maintain tight coverage, and break up passes.
  

• Run Stopping Ability: A linebacker needs to stop the run and limit the yardage gained by ball carriers. This includes their ability to maintain gap control, pursue ball carriers, and shed blockers.
  

• Instincts: A linebacker must have strong instincts to read and react to offensive formations and anticipate plays. This includes their ability to recognize offensive schemes, diagnose plays, and communicate with their teammates.
  

• Versatility: A linebacker must be versatile enough to play different positions and execute different defensive schemes. This includes their ability to adjust to different offensive formations, work effectively with different defensive linemen and defensive backs, and contribute to special teams.
  

• Football IQ: A linebacker's football intelligence is vital in order to make quick decisions and adjustments on the field. This includes their ability to recognize offensive formations, diagnose plays, and communicate with their teammates.
  

• Durability: A linebacker's durability is essential, as they will be taking a lot of hits on the field. This includes their ability to stay healthy and recover quickly from injuries.
  

When scouting a linebacker, it's essential to evaluate all of these factors and the player's overall performance on the field. It's also important to consider the team's specific needs and whether the linebacker's skills and attributes match the team's defensive system and style of play. Additionally, it's important to consider the linebacker's penalties and mental mistakes, as these can be a liability for the defense.

Ranking The Top Graded Linebackers in The 2024 NFL Draft

1). Payton Wilson - NC State Wolfpack

Height/Weight: 6'4", 238 lbs

Ceiling Grade: Near Elite Level Potential

2024 NFL Draft Projection: 2nd round

Performance Grades:

• Pass Rush Grade: B+

• Run Defense Grade: A-

• Coverage Grade: A
  

Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):

• LOS (Line of Scrimmage): 330

• Nickel: 102

• Wide: 5

• Box LB: 958

• Deep Safety: 9
  

NFL Scheme Fit Summary:

Projected NFL Position: Versatile Inside Linebacker

Wilson's agility and instincts set him apart as a linebacker capable of impacting both the run and pass game. His proficiency in coverage, demonstrated by his high coverage grade, makes him especially valuable in today’s NFL, suited to a scheme that maximizes his range and ability to play from sideline to sideline. His overall skill set indicates a player ready to contribute significantly in an aggressive, swarming defensive scheme.

2). Edgerrin Cooper - Texas A&M Aggies

Height/Weight: 6'3", 230 lbs

Ceiling Grade: Mid-Level Starter Potential

2024 NFL Draft Projection: 2nd round

Performance Grades:

• Pass Rush Grade: A

• Run Defense Grade: A+

• Coverage Grade: B+
  

Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):

• LOS: 163

• Nickel: 156

• Wide: 20

• Box LB: 1229

• Deep Safety: 1
  

NFL Scheme Fit Summary:

Projected NFL Position: Weakside Linebacker

Cooper's skill set makes him highly adaptable to various defensive schemes, with particular effectiveness as a weakside linebacker. His excellent diagnostic skills and range allow him to perform well in coverage and as a downhill blitzer, fitting best in a system that leverages his speed and athleticism.

3). Junior Colson - Michigan Wolverines

Height/Weight: 6'3", 247 lbs

Ceiling Grade: Mid-Level Starter Potential

2024 NFL Draft Projection: Late 2nd round, early 3rd

Performance Grades:

• Pass Rush Grade: D

• Run Defense Grade: B+

• Coverage Grade: B+
  

Career Pressures:

Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):

• LOS: 157

• Nickel: 169

• Wide: 23

• Box LB: 1554

• Deep Safety: 6
  

NFL Scheme Fit Summary:

Projected NFL Position: Inside Linebacker

Colson's versatility allows him to excel in a 4-3 defense where his ability to cover ground and manage zone coverage can be utilized effectively, making him a reliable three-down linebacker with the physicality to impact the run game.

4). Jeremiah Trotter Jr. - Clemson Tigers

Height/Weight: 6'0", 230 lbs

Ceiling Grade: Mid-Level Starter Potential

2024 NFL Draft Projection: 3rd Round

Performance Grades:

• Pass Rush Grade: B+

• Run Defense Grade: B+

• Coverage Grade: B

Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):

• LOS: 86

• Nickel: 56

• Wide: 1

• Box LB: 1286

• Deep Safety: 2
  

NFL Scheme Fit Summary:

Projected NFL Position: Hybrid Linebacker

Trotter Jr.'s dynamic style and aggressive play are well-suited for a 4-3 scheme where he can utilize his quickness and instincts. His ability in blitz packages and run defense positions him as a valuable asset in versatile linebacker roles.

5). Cedric Gray - North Carolina Tar Heels

Height/Weight: 6'2", 230 lbs

Ceiling Grade: Mid-Level Starter Potential

2024 NFL Draft Projection: 3rd-4th Round

Performance Grades:

• Pass Rush Grade: B+

• Run Defense Grade: D+

• Coverage Grade: B-

Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):

• LOS: 81

• Nickel: 212

• Wide: 4

• Box LB: 2237

• Deep Safety: 2
  

NFL Scheme Fit Summary:

Projected NFL Position: Inside Linebacker

Gray's capabilities make him an ideal fit for zone-heavy schemes where his coverage ability and range can be maximized. His physicality and instincts contribute effectively to run defense, suggesting a role that leverages his comprehensive skill set.

6). Michael Barrett - Michigan Wolverines

Height/Weight: 6'0", 239 lbs

Ceiling Grade: Mid-Level Starter Potential

2024 NFL Draft Projection: 3rd-5th Round Variance

Performance Grades:

• Pass Rush Grade: A

• Run Defense Grade: C+

• Coverage Grade: C+
  

Career Pressures:

Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):

• LOS: 91

• Nickel: 130

• Wide: 16

• Box LB: 1124

• Deep Safety: 2
  

NFL Scheme Fit Summary:

Projected NFL Position: Hybrid Linebacker

Barrett's versatility shines in his ability to transition seamlessly between coverage and edge responsibilities. His effective man coverage against tight ends and running backs suggests a fit in schemes such as 4-3 or 4-2-5, where he can exploit his hybrid skills both at the line and in open space.

7). Tommy Eichenberg - Ohio State Buckeyes

Height/Weight: 6'2", 239 lbs

Ceiling Grade: Low-Level Starter Potential

2024 NFL Draft Projection: 4th Round

Performance Grades:

• Pass Rush Grade: D

• Run Defense Grade: D+

• Coverage Grade: F

Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):

• LOS: 65

• Nickel: 83

• Wide: 2

• Box LB: 1645

• Deep Safety: 3
  

NFL Scheme Fit Summary:

Projected NFL Position: Inside Linebacker

Eichenberg is characterized by his solid run defense and aptitude in zone coverage, making him suitable for defensive schemes that utilize his abilities to play in space and manage intermediate areas effectively. His current skill set suggests a role where he can leverage his understanding of the game to disrupt running plays and cover short to medium pass routes.

8). Marist Liufau - Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Height/Weight: 6'2", 235 lbs

Ceiling Grade: Low-Level Starter Potential

2024 NFL Draft Projection: 5th Round

Performance Grades:

• Pass Rush Grade: D+

• Run Defense Grade: D+

• Coverage Grade: B

Snaps by Alignment (Total for All Years):

• LOS: 297

• Nickel: 44

• Wide: 12

• Box LB: 886

• Deep Safety: 1
  

NFL Scheme Fit Summary:

Projected NFL Position: Inside Linebacker

Liufau's speed and agility make him a fit for a 4-3 defense, where he can use these attributes to track down plays from sideline to sideline. While his coverage skills are serviceable, his main strength lies in his ability to support the run and execute blitzes, indicating potential growth in a role that capitalizes on his quickness and tackling ability.