BEST RATED RUN DEFENDING LINEBACKERS 2028 NFL Draft

2028 BEST RATED RUN DEFENDING LINEBACKERS

Run defense grade for a linebacker scores play recognition, taking on and shedding blocks, and getting to the ball on every running play. It is the trait that separates a three-down linebacker from a coverage specialist. Reuben Foster (Alabama) and Jaylon Smith (Notre Dame) both graded at the top here in college.

The table ranks this year’s draft-eligible linebackers by run defense grade, alongside tackling, pass rush, coverage and overall rating.

2028 Linebackers ranked by RUN DEFENSE

RANK Player Pos Team TACKLING PASS RUSH RUN DEFENSE COVERAGE Rating
1

Mason
Posa

LB
Wisconsin   Mascot
Wisconsin Mascot
99 74 100 91
87.1
2

Cooper
Catalano

LB
Wisconsin   Mascot
Wisconsin Mascot
82 79 96 68
81.4
3

Jackson
Forrest

LB
Old Dominion   Mascot
Old Dominion Mascot
75 88 89 92
82.1
4

Justin
Hill

LB
/ED
Alabama   Mascot
Alabama Mascot
63 63 75 70
82.5