The South Florida Sun Sentinel continues its eight-part sequence previewing prime gamers within the 2023 NFL draft (April 27-29) with linebackers. The Dolphins added David Long Jr., which is a pleasant acquisition contemplating his expertise and athleticism. The inside linebacker has a low-key position in defensive coordinator Vic Fangio’s 3-4 system however they continue to be important to stopping the run, and it’s at all times good to get the blokes who can keep on the sector for 3 downs.
Drew Sanders, Arkansas
Sanders (6 foot 4, 235 kilos), a switch from Alabama, can battle off blocks within the working recreation and canopy floor within the passing recreation. Sanders had 105 tackles, 9.5 sacks, three compelled fumbles and an interception final season, displaying off an all-around recreation that options play-making talents.
Noah Sewell, Oregon
Sewell (6-1, 246), the youthful brother of Detroit offensive deal with Penei Sewell, totaled 56 tackles and one interception final season. He’s a bit old-school from the standpoint he’s bodily with good measurement and instincts, however he’s not quick or athletic.
Jack Campbell, Iowa
Campbell (6-5, 249) is an old-school hitter and tackler (128 tackles final season) who stands out in opposition to the run. He’s not at his finest in protection, however should you want a running-game enforcer, Campbell, who received the Campbell Award, aka the Academic Heisman, is your man.
Daiyan Henley, Washington State
Henley (6-1, 225) transferred from Nevada, the place he performed extensive receiver. Henley (74 tackles) is quick and bodily, and does a very good job studying performs however doesn’t but have true linebacker instincts.
Trenton Simpson, Clemson
Simpson (6-2, 235) combines the aggression you need with the athleticism to remain on the sector for 3 downs. He’s higher in opposition to the move, however don’t overlook his blitz abilities or his 4.43-second velocity within the 40-yard sprint.
Best of the remainder
Wisconsin’s Nick Herbig, Tulane’s Dorian Williams, Texas’ DeMarvion Overshown, Cincinnati’s Ivan Pace Jr., Ohio State’s Tommy Eichenberg, Alabama’s Henry To’o To’o, and Utah’s Mohamoud Diabate compose the remainder of the highest linebackers.
Class grade: C+
The finest worth might be within the second and third rounds. There is perhaps a first-round decide on this group however a lot of them will develop over two or three years. Keep a watch on Tommy Eichenberg, an All-America and youthful brother of Dolphins guard Liam Eichenberg.
Teams in want
Carolina, which picks No. 1 however will virtually definitely choose a quarterback, will get the primary shot at an inside linebacker however Detroit, Minnesota, Buffalo, Seattle, New York Jets and Pittsburgh are additionally thought of to be groups in want.
Dolphins’ focus
The Dolphins acquired David Long Jr. this offseason to shore up the within with a extra athletic participant to pair with Jerome Baker within the base formation. Top reserve Duke Riley re-signed to supply depth. The Dolphins may need to search for extra depth to associate with Channing Tindall, final yr’s third-round decide who didn’t see a lot time from scrimmage final season. Special groups play is important for children at this place.
<u>Previously addressed</u>
Dolphins NFL draft choices: Wide receivers
Dolphins NFL draft choices: Tight ends
Dolphins NFL draft choices: Offensive line
Dolphins NFL draft choices: Running backs
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Source: www.bostonherald.com