2026 NFL Draft — Linebackers
At Sportsvival, our scouting process is rooted in projection, not just production. We evaluate linebackers through the lens of NFL usage: play recognition, coverage ability, block deconstruction, and how comfortably a defender can stay on the field in today’s sub-package- heavy league. Traits, role versatility, and year-to-year development matter just as much as raw stats.
The 2026 linebacker class features a strong top tier with multiple three-down defenders, followed by a deep group of rotational and scheme-specific contributors.
Below is Sportsvival’s Top 10
Sportsvival Top 10 Linebackers — 2026 NFL Draft
1. Arvell Reese- Ohio State
Height / Weight: 6’4” 243 lbs
Projected Round: 1st Round
Reese is the definition of a modern NFL linebacker. He combines length, explosiveness, and coverage range with the ability to rush the passer and play inside or outside. His instincts and closing speed make him a constant problem for offenses. Reese projects as a day-one starter and defensive centerpiece. Could be the first defensive player off the board.
2. Sonny Styles - Ohio State
Height / Weight: 6’5” 243 lbs
Projected Round: 1st Round
A former safety, Styles brings elite movement skills and coverage instincts to the linebacker position. He excels in space, mirrors routes well, and thrives in nickel and dime looks. His size- speed blend makes him one of the most valuable defenders in the entire 2026 class.
3. Anthony Hill Jr.- Texas
Height / Weight: 6’3” 238 lbs
Projected Round: 2nd Round
Hill plays fast and physical. He triggers quickly against the run and brings real pop as a tackler. His range allows him to operate sideline to sideline, projecting best as a WILL linebacker in aggressive defenses. Continued growth in coverage could push him even higher.
4. C.J. Allen - Georgia
Height / Weight: 6’1” 235 lbs
Projected Round: 2nd–3rd Round
Allen is a high-IQ MIKE linebacker who does everything well. He’s disciplined in run fits, reliable as a tackler, and rarely out of position. While he may not possess elite athletic traits, his consistency and leadership translate cleanly to the NFL level.
5. Josiah Trotter - Missouri
Height / Weight: 6’2” 237 lbs
Projected Round: 2nd–3rd Round
Trotter is a downhill defender with a physical edge to his game. He attacks gaps with urgency and excels as a run defender in aggressive fronts. If his coverage skills continue to progress, he has the tools to become a reliable three-down starter.
6. Jake Golday- Cincinnati
Height / Weight: 6’4” 240 lbs
Projected Round: 3rd Round
Golday brings size, strength, and versatility. He can line up inside or on the edge in certain packages and holds up well taking on blocks. His physicality and football toughness give him strong rotational value with starter upside in the right scheme.
7. Harold Perkins Jr. — LSU
Height / Weight: 6’1” 222 lbs
Projected Round: 3rd–4th Round
Perkins is a hybrid defender with explosive playmaking ability. He flashes as a blitzer and disruptor but remains a bit of a projection in a true off-ball role. His NFL value will depend heavily on creative deployment and scheme fit.
8. Deontae Lawson- Alabama
Height / Weight: 6’2” | 230 lbs
Projected Round: 4th Round
Lawson is a physical, no-nonsense linebacker who thrives against the run. He’s a strong tackler with good instincts inside the box. While his coverage ceiling may be limited, he projects as a dependable early-down defender and special teams contributor.
9. Taurean York- Texas A&M
Height / Weight: 5'10" 235 lbs
Projected Round: 4th–5th Round
York is an instinctive, assignment-sound linebacker who consistently finds the football. He plays with discipline and awareness, making him a strong depth option with long-term rotational value at the next level.
10. Jacob Rodriguez- Texas Tech
Height / Weight: 6’1” 235 lbs
Projected Round: 4th- 5th round
Rodriguez is a productive defender with strong tackling numbers and high effort. He projects as a depth linebacker and special teams contributor early in his career, with the upside to grow into a rotational defensive role.
Sportsvival Scouting Summary
This linebacker group reflects where the NFL is headed. Reese and Styles headline the class as true three-down defenders with elite versatility. The middle tier offers dependable starters and rotational pieces, while the back end of the board provides value depth and developmental upside.
Sportsvival will continue refining this board as film, analytics, and in-season growth reshape the 2026 NFL Draft landscape.
(photo courtesy of Eleven Warriors)