The Post’s Ryan Dunleavy gives his top 10 linebackers in this year’s NFL draft, based on evaluations and conversations with people around the league:
1. Devin Lloyd, 6-3, 237 pounds
Lanky playmaker is one of safest picks in first round. Three straight seasons with double-digit tackles for loss, including 22, as well as seven sacks and four interceptions (two for touchdowns), in 2021. Closes gaps in a flash.
2. Nakobe Dean, Georgia, 5-11, 229 pounds
Doesn’t match up physically compared to others on this list, so he could get swallowed up unless his quick instincts help him beat blockers to the spot. Two-time Butkus Award winner as nation’s best linebacker in high school and college.
3. Chad Muma, Wyoming, 6-3, 239 pounds
Played two years behind Logan Wilson, a key cog in Bengals’ Super Bowl run. Second in FBS with 142 tackles — not missing many opportunities — last season. Good at reading quarterbacks’ eyes to get a jump on undercutting throws.
Devin Lloyd and Nakobe Dean Getty Images; AP4. Christian Harris, Alabama, 6-0, 226 pounds
Started 40 games over last three seasons (including 12 as a true freshman) and played his best in bowl games. Does everything well enough — stops the run, covers the pass, blitzes — but nothing great. Speed is an asset.
5. Quay Walker, Georgia, 6-4, 241 pounds
One-year starter whose athleticism pops, but who still needs development, including in weight room. Extensive special teams experience. Doesn’t take the bait because avid film study has made him good at diagnosing plays.
6. Channing Tindall, Georgia, 6-2, 230 pounds
Third Georgia linebacker on this list never started a game in college, but finished third on loaded defense in tackles in 2021. Charges downhill looking for big hit. Credited with zero career passes defended.
7. Troy Andersen, Montana State, 6-3, 243 pounds
Led team in rushing and passing as a quarterback in 2018 before shifting to defense. Playground chase-the-ball style is fun to watch, but he needs discipline and refinement. Should be core special teams player.
8. Leo Chenal, Wisconsin, 6-3, 250 pounds
Competitiveness engrained by growing up with 15 siblings. Bench-pressed 420 pounds, cleaned 385 pounds and neared 21 miles per hour running, according to The Athletic. Had 115 tackles (18.5 for loss) in 2021.
9. Mike Rose, Iowa State, 6-4, 245 pounds
Made 41 tackles for loss in 49 career games (all starts). Best season was 2020, when he was Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and grabbed five interceptions. Reacts quickly to offset less-than-ideal burst.
10. Malcolm Rodriguez, Oklahoma State, 5-11, 232 pounds
Volume of career productivity is remarkable: 409 tackles and 13 forced fumbles in 60 games (48 starts) over two seasons at safety and two at linebacker. Size-and-speed package won’t scare you.
Late Riser
Tindall: Didn’t make a ton of plays for Georgia, but then again neither did likely top-two overall pick Travon Walker. Could provide nickel pass rush on the edge and be a core special teams player.
Falling Fast
Damone Clark, LSU, 6-2, 239 pounds: Underwent spinal fusion surgery last month to correct a herniated disk, putting his rookie season in jeopardy. Led SEC with 135 tackles in bounce-back season after losing starting job in 2020. True test of leadership.
Small-School Wonder
Andersen: Finished second in school history with 33 rushing touchdowns and was 2021 Big Sky Defensive Player of the Year. One of the big winners from Senior Bowl. High-school valedictorian and finalist for Campbell Trophy (academic Heisman) in college.
