Patriots Draft Watch: Carson Schwesinger Could Be the Perfect Modern Linebacker
The Patriots have been making moves at linebacker this offseason, including cutting longtime starter Ja’Whaun Bentley. With some gaps to fill, they could be looking to the draft for reinforcements and UCLA’s Carson Schwesinger might be the perfect fit.
Who is Carson Schwesinger?
Schwesinger is an off-the-ball linebacker who came up the hard way he wasn’t even ranked coming out of high school. He walked on at UCLA and barely saw the field in his first season. But by 2024, he had a breakout year, racking up 136 tackles, 4 sacks, 2 interceptions, and even blocking a punt. His efforts earned him First-Team All-American and First-Team All-Big Ten honors.
At 6’2 ½” and 242 pounds, he has the ideal build for today’s NFL linebacker. He’s quick, fluid in coverage, and plays with high energy, making him a threat in both run defense and the passing game.
Strengths & Weaknesses
What he does well:
– Sideline-to-sideline speed, great movement skills
– Strong football instincts and a relentless motor
– Reliable tackler with solid coverage ability
– Special teams experience, making him versatile
Where he needs work:
– Limited starting experience his 2024 breakout was his only year as a full-time starter
– Can get caught being too aggressive at times
– Might struggle against bigger NFL blockers
Could He Land in New England?
Schwesinger is projected to go in the second or third round, and he fits what the Patriots are building under new head coach Mike Vrabel speed and aggression on defense. If he’s still available in the early third round, New England might just pull the trigger.
That said, with Robert Spillane, Christian Elliss, and Jack Gibbens already in the mix, the Patriots could decide they don’t need another similar player. And his limited college experience might raise some concerns.
Final Take
Schwesinger has all the tools to be a high-impact linebacker in the NFL. If the Patriots are serious about adding more speed and playmaking ability to their defense, he could be a steal in the draft.
Patriots 2025 Draft: Why Carson Schwesinger is the Ultimate Modern Linebacker
