NFL draft: Sizing up the linebackers

Myles Jack, 6-1, 245, 4.56, UCLA

Knee surgery to repair a torn meniscus in September cost him a season, but he was a two-year starter who played linebacker, safety and running back. Perhaps the best athlete in the draft. Some teams like him as a big strong safety who can blitz or drop into coverage. He also can be a bigtime rusher in a 3-4 defense. Some teams have concerns about his knee. He should be a top-10 pick.

Leonard Floyd, 6-6, 244, 4.59, Georgia

A tremendous athlete best suited as an edge rusher in a 3-4, the same scheme he played in college. He has good size and speed. He’s agile in space. His explosive first step catches tackles off balance. Strong at the point of attack. He can bend and dip when rushing the quarterback. Has a good closing burst on the passer. He has to improve pass coverage. He should be drafted among the top 20.

Darron Lee, 6-1, 232, 4.46, Ohio State

Lacks ideal size, but he’s an exceptional athlete with outstanding speed. He’s too small to play outside in a 3-4. He’s best suited to play on the weak side in a 4-3 and drop and cover. He’s relentless against the run. He’s got an explosive first step. He can close on coverage and when he’s rushing the quarterback. Will go in the first round.

Reggie Ragland, 6-1, 247, 4.62, Alabama

The best inside prospect in the draft has instincts, intelligence and a terrific work ethic. A team leader who sees the whole field and is a hard hitter who can penetrate or chase down plays from sideline to sideline. He also can drop into coverage. Will be taken in the first round by a team that needs a player to play inside or in the middle.