Playing linebacker in football has evolved tremendously over the years. However, with the offensive evolution in the college game, playing the position can be frustrating at times.
This year’s group of linebackers has figured out how to thrive and wreak havoc, so let’s look at the stars that will run defenses in 2025. Which conference has the best defensive field generals, and which team’s unit reigns supreme?
25) Deontae Lawson, Alabama
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 85.17 (B)
With Jihaad Campbell off to the NFL, Alabama needs to find his replacement. Recruiting has made that easier, and a guy like Deontae Lawson returning ensures they have a veteran to make it happen.
Lawson could have turned pro after last year but decided he could do better. It wasn’t his best season, but now he gets a chance to prove himself. The Tide’s defense needs to get better after a disappointing season, but guys like Lawson will ensure that doesn’t happen again.
24) Xavian Sorey Jr., Arkansas
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 80.72 (B-)
Arkansas has one of the better tandems in college football that most people aren’t noticing. Xavian Sorey Jr. and Stephen Dix Jr. are playmakers for the Razorbacks’ defense, and both are great examples of successes in the transfer portal.
Sorey is living up to the hype. Sam Pittman and his staff needed him to be a stud for the defense, and he’s met and even exceeded those expectations. Pittman needs his team to help him stay in Fayetteville, and Sorey will play a huge role in keeping him there.
23) Jack Kelly, BYU
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 77.24 (C+)
BYU’s linebacker room is stacked, even with Harrison Taggart heading to California. They get Isaiah Glasker and Siale Esera back, but Jack Kelly is the star of the defense. With multiple new starters coming to the defensive line, the linebackers play an even bigger role in 2025.
Kelly was overlooked going into college, but he plays the game with a chip on his shoulder. He stepped into the Cougars’ defense and took control as a leader. With the talent coming back this year around him, he could have an even better season.
22) Rasheem Biles, Pittsburgh
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 87.8 (B+)
Pitt’s loaded at linebacker, so much so that a Second-Team All-ACC player isn’t even the best within his own position room. Rasheem Biles is competing for time in the spotlight with Kyle Louis and Braylan Lovelace, but that only makes them better.
Biles finished last year with 82 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks. His disruptiveness helps a Pitt defense that wreaked havoc at times last year, and he’s hoping that he can take his game to another level in 2025.
21) Sammy Brown, Clemson
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 78.89 (C+)
There was a lot of hype surrounding Sammy Brown when he came to Clemson. As a true freshman, he didn’t waste any time seeing the field, and now, he is a staple in the Tigers’Â defense.
Very intrigued by Clemson Soph LB Sammy Brown. For a true freshman last year, he flashed elite speed and power. If he cleans up certain areas of his game, he could be a top LB in the country pic.twitter.com/bURhEtPXWp
— Joe DeLeone (@joedeleone) May 12, 2025
Tom Allen takes over as defensive coordinator, so Brown must learn a new system, but that doesn’t concern this group. They’re stacked on every level, and Brown expects to play an integral role in the Tigers’ dominance on this side of the ball.
20) Taariq Al-Uqdah, Washington
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 72.85 (C-)
If you’re looking for a player to get the ball back to your offense, then Taariq Al-Uqdah is the guy for the job. Washington got him out of the transfer portal, and they’re hoping he can cause problems for the teams they face. He’s a natural when it comes to forcing turnovers, and the Huskies are thrilled that he’ll be lining up for them in the fall.
19) Cade Uluave, California
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 73.56 (C)
Cal’s going through a transition thanks to the transfer portal, but they did retain a few players that will make a big impact on the team. Cade Uluave could have hit the portal and received plenty of interest. He stayed and now hopes to lead the Golden Bears to a better finish in 2025.
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Uluave brings the energy to this defense. He’s a passionate player who burst onto the scene last year, and he’ll help a group that must replace multiple starters. Head coach Justin Wilcox is in a tough spot at Cal, but he can rely on guys like Uluave to keep his hot seat cool.
18) Bryce Boettcher, Oregon
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 83.37 (B)
Oregon’s had an impressive run at linebacker, and that tradition appears to be in good hands this year. Bryce Boettcher returns to lead a Ducks defense that underwent a transition thanks to the NFL Draft, and the unit might need to keep the team steady while the offense gels.
17) Jordan Pollard, San Jose State
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 71.43 (C-)
In a world where the transfer portal is king of the offseason, certain guys have stayed true to their teams. Jordan Pollard could have transferred after all three of his seasons with San Jose State, but he’s still with the Spartans.
San Jose State LB Jordan Pollard (@JordanPollard22) put together a breakout season in 2024, posting career-highs across the board — 115 tackles, 14 TFLs, 4 PBU’s, 2 sacks, and a pick.
Pollard was All-Mountain West First Team last season, and I wouldn’t be shocked if he repeats… pic.twitter.com/KYZwRNqhWJ
— Bryan (@BGauvin23) July 2, 2025
Pollard has improved his production every year, and his 2024 season ended with career numbers in tackles, tackles for loss, and sacks. The Spartans’ defense also returns plenty around him, so a run for the Mountain West championship should be in the cards.
16) Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 79.92 (C+)
Almost all people talk about when it comes to Texas Tech is how much money they spent on their additions to the roster, but there are plenty of quality returnees. Jacob Rodriguez was a First Team All-Big 12 selection last year, and he’s back to help improve a unit that struggled overall.
The Red Raiders’ defense will be the biggest determining factor of the team’s success this year. Rodriguez was a big playmaker for them in 2024, but he didn’t have a ton of help. With the additions around him (especially on the defensive line), this team has big goals they can meet this season.
15) Jason Henderson, Old Dominion
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: N/A
Henderson entered 2024 with 436 tackles and 34 tackles for loss, but a nagging knee injury kept him out of nearly the entire season. He played in one game last year, and now the Monarchs hope he’s back to full health.
In his absence, guys like Koa Naotala, Mario Thompson, and Jahleel Culbreath stepped up to give this team one of the best position groups in the country. Henderson’s return only makes them better, and he could break some records when his career is finally over.
14) Taurean York, Texas A&M
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 85.21 (B)
One of the biggest questions for Texas A&M heading into last year was the linebacker position, but Scooby Williams and Taurean York exceeded expectations. York was a certified playmaker when the Aggies needed it the most, and he’s back to do it again.
Linebacker Taurean York (#21) out of Texas A&M is electric. He bring 100% on every single snap. If he matches last year’s production, you are going to hear a lot of first round buzz surrounding him. pic.twitter.com/ZAvq9fDpEi
— Newt Westen (@NFLDraft_Westen) August 11, 2025
While his frame doesn’t stand out, his play does. He knows where to be and when to be there, and that should help a group that needs new starters up front. Head coach Mike Elko was vocal about his defense’s performance last year, and York will ensure that his coach is more satisfied with the results in 2025.
13) Sonny Styles, Ohio State
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 87.83 (B+)
Much of the hype surrounding Ohio State this year is because of wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and safety Caleb Downs. However, they have a big-time playmaker coming back at linebacker, too.
Sonny Styles was a Second Team All-Big Ten selection last year, and there’s reason to believe he’s set for an even better season. He’ll have an inexperienced group around him, but his leadership should help those guys get up to speed quickly.
12) Red Murdock, Buffalo
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 83.3 (B)
One thing’s for certain, the Buffalo Bulls know how to tackle. With the return of Red Murdock, Dion Crawford, and Kobe Stewart up front, this defense should have no problem thriving in 2025.
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Despite playing in Shaun Dolac’s shadow, Murdock put up monster numbers for the Bulls last year. He recorded 156 tackles and 17 tackles for loss, and he should be able to do more of the same with Dolac gone.
11) Keyshaun Elliott, Arizona State
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 76.61 (C)
If there’s one linebacker that people are sleeping on, it’s Keyshaun Elliott. Part of that is because he came from New Mexico State, a school that most in the college football world don’t even know exists. That being said, it won’t be long before he’s on everyone’s radar.
Elliott gave the Sun Devils a reliable playmaker on defense, and he’s one of many returnees who hope to get this team back to the College Football Playoff. He has a bright future, and another good year will elevate his draft stock even more.
10) Keaton Thomas, Baylor
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 83.84 (B)
Dave Aranda feels good about his defense this year, and Keaton Thomas plays a huge role in that excitement. The Bears’ star linebacker was a First Team All-Big 12 selection, and he takes on more of a leadership role this year with so many new faces coming into the program.
Baylor needs to get off to a fast start. Auburn, SMU, Arizona State, and Kansas State all grace the schedule in the first half of the season, and Thomas needs to ensure the defense is ready. If the Bears find success against those teams, they have a legitimate chance of making a playoff run.
9) Drayk Bowen, Notre Dame
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 81.62 (B-)
Marcus Freeman’s defenses at Notre Dame have continued the tradition of elite play he brought from Cincinnati. Even when they see guys depart for the NFL, the next guys up are ready to play. This year shouldn’t be any different, even with a new defensive coordinator.
Drayk Bowen may have to contribute more than he did last year.
The defensive line is going through a transition, so the linebackers will need to help more this season. That should be a problem, as Bowen consistently showed that he can be a force for this Fighting Irish defense.
8) CJ Allen, Georgia
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 85.59 (B)
Georgia’s tradition of elite linebacker play will continue this year, and this Bulldogs team is on a mission of revenge in 2025.
After a disappointing finish, they’re looking to get back to the top of college football. The defense will help, and getting CJ Allen back on the roster gives them a star at linebacker.
Linebacker Taurean York (#21) out of Texas A&M is electric. He bring 100% on every single snap. If he matches last year’s production, you are going to hear a lot of first round buzz surrounding him. pic.twitter.com/ZAvq9fDpEi
— Newt Westen (@NFLDraft_Westen) August 11, 2025
Allen’s already getting plenty of love in the NFL Draft circles, and he’s well on his way to being a first-round pick. This is a deep position for the Bulldogs, but Allen is clearly the star of the group. If this defense plays to its potential, watch out.
7) Lander Barton, Utah
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 78.92 (C+)
People kind of forgot about Lander Barton when Utah started struggling, but that didn’t stop him from making plays. If the Utes get back to their winning ways, Barton’s going to become more well-known than he was last year.
Utah LB Lander Barton is big as shit pic.twitter.com/PTZESpds8z
— Joe DeLeone (@joedeleone) July 21, 2025
At 6’4″ and 236 pounds, Barton is someone who will get plenty of attention from scouts and analysts. Whether he’ll play as a stand-up linebacker or an edge rusher could be a question, but he’s proven that he can ball anywhere on the field.
6) Wade Woodaz, Clemson
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 83.29 (B)
It’s crazy to think that Wade Woodaz came to Clemson as a safety, but that fact is also a big reason why he’s found success at linebacker. His athleticism jumps out on film, and it gives the Tigers plenty of versatility on the back end of their defense.
After two years of playing the position, he’s also become more comfortable with the normal duties of a linebacker. His 2024 season showed the coaching staff that he’s taking steps in his development, and he could take another big one this year, too.
5) Austin Romaine, Kansas State
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 78.61 (C+)
Chris Klieman’s defense was a tough group last year, and that should be the case again in 2025. The linebackers are set, which is good considering the changes occurring up front and in the secondary.
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Austin Romaine will lead the charge on defense. He put up career numbers in 2024, and now he’ll help usher in plenty of new starters to get them ready for this season. The Wildcats have big goals for 2025, and their first game against Iowa State feels like it’s right around the corner.
4) Aiden Fisher, Indiana
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 82.86 (B-)
Curt Cignetti knew what he was doing when he brought multiple James Madison transfers to Indiana. Getting Aiden Fisher was one of the big-name players who helped the Hoosiers immensely.
A First Team All-Big Ten selection, Fisher finished the year with 118 tackles to lead the team. He was a big reason why the Hoosiers surprised the conference, and now he’s back to potentially do it all over again.
3) Kyle Louis, Pittsburgh
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 92.39 (A-)
Linebackers nowadays aren’t what they used to be in terms of size, but that’s a result of the new style of play in college football. Guys like Kyle Louis appear to be small, but that hasn’t stopped him from wreaking havoc against opposing offenses.
Pitt has some serious ballers on this roster, ACC needs to be on notice
Kyle Louis (9) is fast, rangy, and has that dog in him (or should I say shark, IYKYK). I would imagine some NFL teams would consider putting him at safety but bottom line is he is a playmaker.#H2P @K_009r… pic.twitter.com/QrzgCX097z
— Anthony Russo (@Anthony_Russo97) July 24, 2025
Pitt’s defense is stacked in 2025, but Louis is the star of the show. He posted career numbers in 2024, finishing with 101 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, seven sacks, and four interceptions.
If this defense can show that returning talent translates to even better play, Pitt will be a problem for the opponents they face.
2) Whit Weeks, LSU
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 89.43 (B+)
Thanks to Netflix’s Any Given Saturday documentary series, fans have gotten to know LSU star linebacker Whit Weeks a little better, leading up to this season. A star of the series, Weeks’ personality shone through the screen, giving Tigers fans an idea of how he is as both a person and a competitor.
Weeks knows that last year didn’t end how they wanted, but he’s also a big reason why they have their sights set on a playoff run. With Garrett Nussmeier dealing with a knee issue, the defense might be called upon to carry the team early in the season.
1) Anthony Hill Jr., Texas
2024 PFSN College LB+ Grade: 90.43 (A-)
While everyone gushes over Arch Manning (and for good reason), the Texas Longhorns’ defense is also stacked with NFL talent. Defensive end Colin Simmons commands much attention, but Anthony Hill Jr. is right there with him.
Hill has a bright future at linebacker and is considered a potential first-round pick. He has multiple years of experience under his belt, and now he’s focused on getting the Longhorns a national championship in 2025.
