Breaking down a strong class on the second level
Since the Las Vegas Raiders will have two new starting linebackers this season, Silver and Black Pride has done a deep dive into the 2025 NFL Draft class at the position. ‘Film Room’ articles are available for prospects like Georgia’s Jalon Walker, Alabama’s Jihaad Campbell and Oklahoma’s Danny Stutsman, among others, so now it’s time to rank them.
Below is a look at how the top backers in this year’s class stack up against each other in addition to where they rank on NFL Mock Draft Database’s consensus big board to get a holistic view of where each player’s stock is heading into draft weekend.
1. Jalon Walker, Georgia
NMDD rank: 10th overall (1st round)
Some teams may view Walker as more of an edge defender given his position flexibility. Ultimately, he’s a hybrid linebacker who can contribute in multiple areas defensively. The Georgia product has the strength to be a quality run defender, is athletic to grow in coverage and has plenty of experience as a pass-rusher to put pressure on the quarterback. His instincts could use some work, but that can come with more time and experience on the second level.
2. Jihaad Campbell, Alabama
NMDD rank: 17th overall (1st round)
In a similar fashion, Campbell has “do-it-all” potential at the next level as well. He stands out the most in coverage right now. But he has shown the ability to slip blocks in the running game and recorded 20 pressures (five sacks) on 99 pass-rush snaps last season, according to Pro Football Focus. The 21-year-old has a bright future ahead of him, especially if he can add some strength at the point of attack.
3. Jeffrey Bassa, Oregon
Photo by Robin Alam/ISI Photos/Getty Images
NMDD rank: 132nd (5th Round)
Admittedly, I’m higher on Bassa than most with a late second-round to early third-round grade on him. So, the Raiders could get some tremendous value by taking him on Day 3, in my opinion. The former Duck showcases the ability to be an every-down contributor at the next level and could be a big steal during draft weekend.
4. Carson Schwesinger, UCLA
NMDD rank: 56th (2nd Round)
Schwesinger is the feel-good story of this year’s linebacker class, going from a former walk-on to an All-American this past season. His impressive speed and athleticism give him plenty of range as a run defender and coverage skills, and he has good instincts to rack up tackles by consistently being in the right spot. The former Bruin needs to improve his strength at the point of attack and/or develop a move to slip blocks in the running game, but his potential is through the roof.
5. Chris Paul Jr., Ole Miss
NMDD rank: 103rd (4th Round)
With good athleticism and eyes when playing zone, Paul should be able to contribute as a coverage linebacker right away in the NFL. His movement skills also help him against the run, though he could afford to be more stout when taking on blocks, like many other backers on this list. Still, the Ole Miss product’s traits are worth betting on.
6. Demetrius Knight Jr., South Carolina
NMDD rank: 73rd (3rd Round)
Teams could prioritize Knight over Schwesinger or Paul if they’re looking for someone who can contribute against the run immediately. He’s instinctual and can take on blocks to be a quality two-down backer at the least. The passing game is a bit of a question mark. The former Gamecock isn’t great in coverage, but he can contribute as a blitzer with impressive closing speed on the quarterback.
7. Danny Stutsman, Oklahoma
NMDD rank: 117th (4th Round)
Stutsman being LB7 says more about the strength of this year’s linebacker class than it does his ability. The Oklahoma product plays with his hair on fire and is a quality run defender who, like Knight, could be higher on some club’s board depending on what they’re looking for. Stutsman has shown some decent coverage skills in the past, but he’s best as a downhill run defender.
Honorable Mention
Clemson’s Barrett Carter (106th, 4th Round), Notre Dame’s Jack Kiser (157th, 5th Round), Minnesota’s Cody Lindenberg (264th, UDFA) and Georgia’s Smael Mondon Jr. (135th, 5th Round)