2025 NFL Combine: Linebackers the Lions Should Be Watching
This year’s NFL Draft class is stacked with talented linebackers who bring versatility to the table—exactly what teams like the Lions are looking for. Whether it’s three-down players who can cover, blitz, and play in space, or guys who can rush off the edge, there’s no shortage of talent.
Detroit’s linebacker situation is in flux. Jack Campbell has already established himself as one of the league’s top MIKE linebackers, but Alex Anzalone, now 30, is entering the final year of his contract. Meanwhile, Derrick Barnes is a free agent this offseason, making linebacker a clear position of need.
Here are five linebackers to watch at the Combine:
1. Jalon Walker (Georgia, 6-2, 245)
Walker’s versatility is a huge plus—he’s played both linebacker and edge rusher. That makes him a fit for a 3-4 outside linebacker role or as a SAM in a 4-3. In 2024, he racked up 60 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks, showing his ability to impact both the run and passing game.
2. Jihaad Campbell (Alabama, 6-3, 244)
The Lions love Alabama prospects, and Campbell is exactly the kind of do-it-all linebacker teams want. Originally an edge rusher, he transitioned to linebacker and showcased his range, finishing with 117 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, an interception, and two forced fumbles in 2024. His ability to cover and play in space makes him a great fit in today’s NFL.
3. Carson Schwesinger (UCLA, 6-2, 225)
Schwesinger might be the smartest linebacker in the draft, with elite instincts and an ability to diagnose plays quickly. He’s a bit undersized at 225 pounds, but his high football IQ and knack for avoiding blockers make up for it. He posted 136 tackles, 4 sacks, and 2 interceptions last season—great production for a potential WILL linebacker in the NFL.
4. Demetrius Knight Jr. (South Carolina, 6-1, 245)
Knight is a physical, hard-hitting linebacker who rarely gets taken out of plays. He forced three fumbles in 2024 while recording 82 tackles, 2 sacks, and an interception. His ability to fight off blocks and diagnose plays makes him a strong fit for a team needing toughness at the position.
5. Barrett Carter (Clemson, 6-1, 230)
Carter is the definition of a modern three-down linebacker. He’s got the speed to cover (21 pass breakups over the last three seasons) and the pass-rush ability to make an impact (12.5 sacks in that span). His skill set fits perfectly in an NFL defense looking for versatility.
Sleeper to Watch: Josaiah Stewart (Michigan, 6-1, 245)
Some scouts see Stewart as more of an edge rusher, but his skill set could allow him to play SAM linebacker in a 4-3—just like Derrick Barnes. He plays with relentless effort and never takes a play off, which could make him an intriguing late-round target for Detroit.
Lions’ Linebacker Need: Definite Long-Term Concern
The Lions have some decisions to make at linebacker. Anzalone is still playing at a high level, but he’ll be 31 this year and only has one season left on his contract. Barnes’ free agency status could dictate whether Detroit looks for an immediate starter or a long-term depth piece.
New defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard knows the importance of having a strong linebacker group—it’s the heartbeat of the defense. Expect the Lions to closely evaluate this year’s linebacker class as they look to build depth and find the next playmaker for their defense.
