Top Linebacker Draft Prospects

1.     Shaq Thompson (University of Washington)

Shaq Thompson is the best linebacker and most likely all around player in college football. Thompson, who played both linebacker and running back, has decided to leave Washington after his junior year to enter the NFL draft. Thompson has remarkable athleticism and play recognition, and has one of the most explosive first steps in college. Thompson has the speed to catch almost any back and arrives at ball carriers in a flash. Thompson’s size doesn’t make him a big hit threat; he is still a trustworthy tackler. Thompson can also make his mark as a safety if needed, having the speed and natural coverage ability to compete in the secondary as well. Thompson’s ability to change direction on a dime makes him an aggressive coverage man and doesn’t make many mental mistakes. Thompson’s miraculous athleticism and incredible football mind makes him a high prospect at either linebacker, safety, or running back. 

2.     Paul Dawson (TCU)

There is no better comparison to Luke Kuechly in this years draft than Paul Dawson of TCU. Dawson was all over the field and was involved in almost every TCU tackle. Finishing only four games without double-digit tackles and totaling 135 tackles on the season, Dawson demonstrates great athletic ability both in the rushing and passing game. He may not be the greatest pass rusher, but Dawson makes his way into almost every tackle. Another linebacker who relies on his athleticism to get around defenders, has incredible speed, unique play recognition, and is a pure tackler Dawson is a top prospect. Look for Dawson to make an immediate impact on whatever team drafts him.

3.     Hau’oli Kikaha (University of Washington)

The freak pass rusher that is Hau’oli Kikaha returned to the field for his junior season with a monstrous comeback. After missing the whole 2011 and 2012 seasons due to two ACL injuries, Kikaha returned to carry the Husky defense along with Shaq Thompson. Leading the team in sacks with 19, Kikaha proved that even with his injuries he is a serious NFL prospect. Although he isn’t much of a coverage player, Kikaha has one of the most threatening pass rushing abilities in this years class. The unique ability to line up on either side, in either a two or three point stance gives him the advantage to pass rush from numerous positions. Even though he didn’t put on some of the most impressive stats in any other category other than sacks, Kikaha proved that his physical play works. The 6 foot 2 inch 250 pound linebacker can become one of the most fearsome pass rushers in the NFL.