On Thursday, the interior defensive linemen opened the televised coverage of the 2025 NFL Combine, showcasing their skills before the highly anticipated performances of edge rushers and linebackers. Although not all of the ten linebackers recommended for Detroit Lions fans participated in the measurables or on-field drills, five athletes delivered exceptional performances, and two newcomers caught our attention. Let's delve into the seven linebackers who truly stood out on Day 1.
Leading the linebacker group was Jihaad Campbell from Alabama, standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 235 pounds. Campbell was undeniably the big winner of the day, likely securing his position at the top of the group rankings. His impressive 4.52-second 40-yard dash and a remarkable 10-foot-7 broad jump were among the best performances compared to his peers. During drills, he exhibited balance and technique, smoothly navigating through various on-field activities. His acceleration was particularly eye-catching, showcasing his ability to control speed with precision. Campbell's background in pass rushing shone through in the EDGE drills, where he distinguished himself with powerful hand placement and separation from competitors.
Demetrius Knight Jr. from South Carolina, measuring 6-foot-1 ½ and weighing 235 pounds, impressed with a 4.58-second 40-yard dash. His speed was evident during on-field drills, where he covered significant ground laterally and ramped up his speed effectively when closing in on targets. Although he sometimes appeared less natural in drills, his relentless effort and determination to maximize each movement were commendable.
Chris Paul Jr., hailing from Mississippi, stood at 6-foot-1 and weighed 222 pounds. He clocked a 4.63-second 40-yard dash, placing him right at the median for linebacker times. Paul's compact movements allowed him to maintain control, and his acceleration was notable, indicating he plays faster than his straight-line speed suggests. His lateral movements particularly stood out, showcasing his potential to excel at the next level.
Smael Mondon Jr. from Georgia, measuring 6-foot-2 and weighing 224 pounds, recorded a 4.58-second 40-yard dash and wowed observers with a 10-foot-10 broad jump, highlighting his explosive traits. Throughout the drills, the word "balanced" appeared frequently in notes, as he exhibited a consistent ability to transition between skills. His lateral agility and attacking speed were impressive, marking him as a player to watch moving forward.
Kobe King, from Penn State, stood 6-foot-1 and weighed 236 pounds. Despite not being on the pre-Combine watchlist, his workouts showcased why the Lions sought a formal meeting with him. His lateral movements were impressive, with quick feet allowing for rapid changes in direction. King demonstrated not just quickness but also speed, varying his pace effectively. However, he did throttle down at times during ball drills. Overall, his footwork and tenacious approach painted a positive picture of his potential.
Collin Oliver from Oklahoma State, measuring 6-foot-2 and weighing 240 pounds, completed the 40-yard dash in 4.56 seconds, achieved a 39-inch vertical jump, and recorded a 10-foot-6 broad jump. As an experienced pass-rushing linebacker, I was particularly interested in his skills in that area. While he maintained speed while bending low, his hand usage left something to be desired. Although he exhibited some promising traits, he appeared incomplete as either a pass rusher or off-the-ball linebacker. Nevertheless, his athleticism holds potential for development in both roles.
The first day of the 2025 NFL Combine brought forth a wealth of talent among linebackers, with several players making a strong case for their future in the league. As teams evaluate these prospects, the performances of Jihaad Campbell, Demetrius Knight Jr., Chris Paul Jr., Smael Mondon Jr., Kobe King, and Collin Oliver will undoubtedly influence their draft strategies. Keep an eye on these players as they continue to make their mark in the NFL.
