Analysis: Has some of the best insticts we've seen in a linebacker in years. A better athlete than you think who makes plays all over the field. Can fit into any scheme.
Projection: Top 15.
2. Dont'a Hightower (JR) 6'4 260 Alabama
Analysis: A prototypical downhill run stuffer who works well in traffic. Only fit is in a 3-4 scheme due to a lack of elite athletism. Very talent blitzer who knows how to get to the QB.
Projection: 1st Round
3. Vontaze Burfict (JR) 6'3 252 Arizona State
Analysis: Might be the most talented LB in the draft. Great athlete, very aggressive, and hits like a truck. However he disappears at times, lacks focus, and is a me first player. Punched a teammate and blamed old coaching staff for his problems.
Projection: 2nd - 4th Round
4. Bobby Wagner (SR) 6'2 235 Utah State
Analysis: At his best when he is in space. Good coverage linebacker who will fly to the ball. Not great in run support and is a drag down tackler. Highly productive with 147 tackles this past year.
Projection: 2nd - 3rd Round
5. Audie Cole (SR) 6'4 240 North Carolina State
Analysis: Flurished when moved to MLB Senior year. Good run defender who can operate in traffic. Could stand to add more weight. Struggles to change direction in coverage. Solid pass rusher with 5.5 sacks in 2011.
Projection: 3rd - 4th Round
6. James-Michael Johnson (SR) 6'2 240 Nevada
Analysis: Has good speed and quickness, but very stiff and doesn't change direction very well. Can get lost in traffic. Isn't great at anything, but solid in all areas.
Projection: 4th Round
7. Chris Marve (SR) 6'0 235 Vanderbilt
Analysis: Has some of the best instincts at the position, but physical skills don't match up. Not very physical, but always around the ball. He doesn't have top end speed, but always knows where to be.
Projection: 4th - 5th Round
8. DJ Holt (SR) 6'1 250 California
Analysis: Good tackler who drives through opponents to take them down. Very disciplined and reliable, rarely makes mental mistakes. But not a great athlete and isn't going to make many "slash" plays.
Projection: 5th - 7th Round
9. Jerry Franklin (SR) 6'1 240 Arkansas
Analysis: Versitle linebacker who can play multiple LB spots. Plays with a hot motor and always around the ball. Not very fast or quick, but strong and a good tackler. Plays well in traffic and can shed blocks well.
Projection: 5th - 6th Round
10. Korey Williams (SR) 6'2 244 Southern Mississippi
Analysis: Had a monster 2011 year before tearing ACL in 4th game. Has a knack for making big plays. Very good at anticipating. Good athlete before injury. Talented blitzer who was always in the opponents backfield. If knee heals he could be a steal.
Projection: 4th - 6th Round
Sleeper
Carmen Messina (SR) 6'2 236 New MexicoAnalysis: Has produced at a high level since he arrived. Technically sound with good instincts. But lacks size and elite physcial skills. Could flourish in the right system.
Projection: 6th - 7th Round
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