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The 2025 NFL Draft linebacker class has the potential to exceed expectations, featuring a combination of positional versatility, coverage ability, and traditional run-stopping skills. In today’s NFL, linebackers must be able to move across the second level pre-snap and contribute in coverage, and this class offers plenty of prospects who fit that mold. Leading the way is Georgia’s Jalon Walker, a hybrid defender who can align as an off-ball linebacker in a 4-3 one play and then rush the quarterback as a 3-4 outside linebacker the next.
Alabama’s Jihaad Campbell follows closely behind, bringing similar versatility. He excels in coverage, has the ability to rush the passer, and plays with a relentless motor and high football IQ. The class also features high-upside players like Carson Schwesinger and Jeffrey Bassa, who fit the modern linebacker prototype with their range and athleticism. Meanwhile, Demetrius Knight Jr. provides a more traditional MIKE linebacker skill set with his ability to take on blocks and control the run game.
With a strong blend of athletic coverage linebackers and physical run defenders, the 2025 linebacker class offers immediate impact players and long-term development prospects for NFL teams looking to build their defense around versatile second-level defenders.
2025 NFL Draft: Linebacker Rankings
Near Elite Tier - 1st Round Projection
1) Jalon Walker | Georgia | Ht: 6'2" | Wt: 245 lbs
Player Comparison: Jamie Collins
Analysis: Walker is an explosive, versatile linebacker who can play both off-ball and on the edge. His range, pass-rushing ability, and coverage instincts make him a disruptive playmaker. Though still developing as a full-time linebacker, his athleticism and football IQ give him Pro Bowl upside.
High-End Starter Potential - 2nd/3rd Round Projection
2) Jihaad Campbell | Alabama | Ht: 6'3" | Wt: 230 lbs
Player Comparison: Tremaine Edmunds
Analysis: Campbell is a rangy linebacker with elite speed, coverage ability, and pass-rush versatility. His quick processing and athleticism make him an ideal modern linebacker. Needs to improve block-shedding and run-fit discipline to reach his ceiling.
3) Carson Schwesinger | UCLA | Ht: 6'2" | Wt: 225 lbs
Player Comparison: Deion Jones
Analysis: Schwesinger is an instinctive, high-motor linebacker with great lateral agility and open-field tackling ability. His coverage skills and range make him a strong fit as a modern WILL linebacker. Needs to improve strength and block disengagement.
4) Chris Paul Jr. | Ole Miss | Ht: 6'1" | Wt: 235 lbs
Player Comparison: Patrick Queen
Analysis: Paul is an athletic, sideline-to-sideline linebacker with coverage ability and blitzing upside. His burst and tackling make him a disruptive presence, though he must improve at disengaging from blockers. Best suited as a 4-3 WILL or 3-4 ILB.
5) Jeffrey Bassa | Oregon | Ht: 6'2" | Wt: 235 lbs
Player Comparison: Bobby Okereke
Analysis: A former safety, Bassa offers elite coverage ability, range, and blitzing potential. His athleticism makes him a valuable sub-package linebacker early in his career. Needs to refine play recognition and run defense to become a full-time starter.
6) Demetrius Knight Jr. | South Carolina | Ht: 6'2" | Wt: 245 lbs
Player Comparison: Reggie Ragland
Analysis: Knight is a physical, downhill linebacker with strong blitzing ability and run-stopping instincts. His size and strength allow him to take on blocks, but his lateral agility limits his coverage upside. Best suited as a MIKE in an attacking defense.