2025 NFL Combine: Ranking Jalon Walker and the top five linebacker prospects ahead of the combine

Jalon Walker emerged as a standout linebacker and edge rusher for the Georgia Bulldogs, showcasing his versatility and athletic prowess on the SEC's biggest stages. In his final college season, he earned the prestigious Butkus Award, recognizing him as the nation’s top linebacker.

After a strong showing in Indianapolis, Walker could spark legitimate first-overall pick discussions. Though he's slightly smaller and shorter than the prototypical edge defender, his draft stock could soar if he impresses at the weigh-ins. Coming in 10 pounds heavier than his playing weight, running a sub-4.5 40-yard dash, and clearing 38 inches in the vertical jump would all boost his case.

Walker excels at both off-ball linebacker and edge defender roles at an elite level. His pass-rush win rate and pressure metrics rival those of top first-round edge prospects, and his dominance against the run adds another layer to his game. Beyond his on-field production, he’s also been a vocal leader and captain for the Bulldogs.

A key player to keep an eye on at the NFL Scouting Combine is Jihaad Campbell from Alabama. Standing at 6ft 3in and weighing 244 pounds, this linebacker has the versatility to stay on the field for all three downs.

In his final season with the Crimson Tide, Campbell racked up 117 tackles and 5.5 sacks, solidifying his status as one of the elite talents at his position.

No linebacker prospect surged up the 2025 NFL Draft boards faster than Chris Paul Jr. this past season. The former Arkansas transfer went from relative obscurity to a potential second- or third-round pick in under a year.

Paul is a true all-around defender. He tallied six sacks, maintained an almost flawless missed tackle rate, and allowed just over 200 receiving yards across nearly 300 coverage snaps. Despite being slightly undersized for the position, the NFL Combine will be a pivotal moment for Paul to showcase his value as an early-round selection.

Danny Stutsman was a consensus All-American linebacker and a finalist for the prestigious Butkus Award, recognizing him as one of the nation's top linebackers. Despite these accolades, All-American Football ranks Stutsman 23rd among linebackers in this year's NFL Draft, projecting him as a potential sixth-round selection.

A three-year starter from Windermere, FL, Stutsman appeared in 47 games for Oklahoma, finishing ninth in program history with 395 career tackles. His impressive stat line also includes 36 tackles for loss, eight sacks, three interceptions, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. In 2024, he secured consensus All-America honors and earned first-team All-SEC recognition while once again being a Butkus Award finalist.

Carter has long been viewed as an early to mid-round prospect in the NFL Draft, having established himself as one of college football's top linebackers over the past three seasons.

However, his decision to stay for another year after 2023 may have hurt his stock, particularly due to his struggles in coverage last fall.

While Carter still brings a versatile skill set that adds value all over the field, allowing five touchdowns in coverage last season has raised concerns about his ability to contribute on every down at the pro level. A strong showing at the NFL Combine will be crucial for him to re-enter the early-round conversation.