1. This site uses cookies. By continuing to use this site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Learn More.

Linebackers lead the way heading into 2008

Discussion in 'NFL Draft Forum' started by ATVZ400, May 3, 2008.

  1. ATVZ400

    ATVZ400 Senior Member

    5,254
    5,111
    0
    Mar 22, 2008
    parts unknown, NJ
    With the 2008 NFL draft now behind us, it's never too soon to look at the top seniors in the class of 2008. My Top 25 Big Board won't be complete until August, but the top 10 is set, highlighted by three linebackers in the top five.

    1. James Laurinaitis, LB, Ohio State (6-2½, 242)
    If he had declared for the 2008 NFL draft, Laurinaitis most likely would have been a top-10 pick. In addition to being extremely athletic, he has a great nose for the ball and plays with a great deal of intensity. In 2007, he had 121 tackles (8½ for loss), five interceptions and two sacks. What separates Laurinaitis from USC's Rey Maualuga is his week-to-week consistency.

    2. Rey Maualuga, LB, USC (6-2½, 250)
    A true impact player at MLB, Maualuga has the size and strength to take on blocks and fill holes. He also has the speed to chase down plays sideline to sideline. He's effective on the blitz and hits like a ton of bricks. The only criticism I have is that he's not always the dominant force his talent level indicates he should be.

    3. Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss (6-4, 325)
    He has the strength to move defenders off the line of scrimmage and, after dropping some weight in 2007, his pass blocking greatly improved.

    4. Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU (6-4, 290)
    He had 8½ sacks as a sophomore. As a junior, Jackson was outstanding against the run but had only 3½ sacks. He is versatile enough to play in either the 4-3 or 3-4 base defense. He also could move in and play defensive tackle in pass situations.

    5. Brian Cushing, LB, USC (6-3½, 245)
    He had a great sophomore season, leading the Trojans with 13½ tackles for loss, but a knee injury kept him from having the type of junior year expected. Cushing has the ability to get after the quarterback and drop into coverage. He'd be the ideal OLB in a 3-4 scheme.

    link to rest of story
    http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/columns/story?columnist=kiper_jr_mel&id=3377267
     
    alen1 likes this.
  2. Regan21286

    Regan21286 MCAT's, EMT's, AMCAS, ugh

    10,439
    3,176
    0
    Dec 3, 2007
    UCLA, CA
    Laurinaitis and Maualuga are guys I would highly consider next year since Ayodele and Torbor are nothing to shout out.
     
  3. adamprez2003

    adamprez2003 Senior Member

    37,392
    14,745
    113
    Nov 27, 2007
    new york ciity
    Add in George Selvie to play opposite Merling as a consideration
     
    Regan21286 likes this.
  4. Dolfan4Life

    Dolfan4Life BostonStrong

    1,935
    315
    83
    May 3, 2008
    Germany
    I would be happy with either one of them!
     
  5. texanphinatic

    texanphinatic Senior Member

    12,053
    5,039
    113
    Nov 26, 2007
    Detroit Metro Area MI
    Yeah Laurinaitis would be my top pick, though Maualuga and Cushing would be great too if Animaljr is off the board.

    I think we will be picking about in his range though, I predict in the 6-10 area for us.
     
  6. Frumundah Finnatic

    Frumundah Finnatic U Mad Miami?

    39,245
    10,681
    0
    Dec 2, 2007
    Miami FL
    Laurinitis will go in the top 10, I doubt he falls to us at 32. :wink2:
     

Share This Page