Hello rumblers with the combine heading underway and the annual big board do over coming up I'd like to look at some prospect positions that I consider positions of need. this will all be based on the 43 system.

My top 5 Inside Linebackers

1. Donta Hightower, 6-4 260: would be great at our SLB spot. he reminds me of a better version of Brandon Spikes. could play any of our linebacker spots. I give him a mid 1st round grade.

2. Vontaze Burfict 6-3 250: has some issues with character and emotional security. can disappear from games sometimes because of his not so great instincts but can also be a big hit highlight reel. would benefit him a lot going to a team with a solid veteran to teach him and keep him in check. I give him a mid to late 2nd round grade.

3. Luke Kuechly 6-2 237: He is somewhat overrated because of his production but can get the job done. he somewhat struggles getting off blocks and catching the ball-carrier at the line of scrimmage. most of his tackles came down field. He actually played DB in high school and is OK in pass protection. doesn't have the greatest athleticism though. to a lesser extent could be a James Lauranitis type of player or a Paul Posluzney. Gets a mid 2nd round grade from me.

4. Audie Cole 6-4 248: like what I see from him. solid in pass protection and reads the quarter back well. was a 3 sporter in High school. Could move to OLB which is what I see him doing. is inconsistent in run defense and I would like to see him take better angles. Relies too much on his power on tackling and need to be more fundamentally sound in that area. Could be a starter down the road. I give him a mid 3rd round grade.

James-Michael Johnson 6-1 249: A true MIKE linebacker here. Limited athletically. Doesnt really have great Read and React skills. Great run defender and can fight off blocks easily. Not great in Man coverage but is a thumper in the middle of the field. Gets caught up in cut blocks easily and doesnt have great speed to make plays downfield. great character, I believe he came 2nd in voting of the Al Michaels award which is the award of putting the team first. I give him a early to mid 4th round grade.

well hope you liked it, feel free to comment below.