The linebacker position is stacked with talent in the 2027 Rivals300 rankings, which includes 25 linebackers among the 300 prospects.
As of June 5, 18 of those 25 have committed to 14 different schools, with four programs landing two blue-chip players each.
Top Linebackers to Watch
One standout is a prototypical off-ball linebacker from Jesuit (Fla. ), standing 6-foot-1 and 218 pounds with 34-inch arms.
He offers elite length, sideline-to-sideline athleticism, rapid processing, and violent tackling, making him a versatile chess piece for any defense.
Joakim Gouda, a Georgia commit, is a thumping inside linebacker at over 6-foot-1.5 and 230 pounds.
He recorded 100 tackles and two sacks in his junior season, showing high-end burst and quick play diagnosis.
Cooper Witten, an Oklahoma commit, measures 6-foot-1 and 210 pounds with exceptional range and speed.
He ran sub-11 seconds in the 100m during his sophomore track season and brings athleticism from playing safety and wide receiver.
Jhadyn Nelson, a Texas Tech commit, stands 6-3 and 216 pounds with elite combine metrics: a 4.63-second 40-yard dash and a 35.2-inch vertical jump.
He operates at all three levels of defense and has immense upside as a pass-rusher.
Another top prospect is a physically gifted outside linebacker from Garner (N. C.
), listed at 6-foot-3 and 210 pounds.
A three-sport athlete and state champion in the 300m hurdles, he uses his size and speed to eliminate angles and chase down running backs.
Bryce Kish, a Clemson commit from Howell (Mich. ), ranks No. 60 in the Rivals300 and has the build of a college player.
With a running back background and an 11.1-second 100-meter dash, he offers rare upside as a linebacker or EDGE defender.
Toa Satele, an Oregon commit from Mililani (Hi. ), ranks No. 74 and features a long 6-foot-3, 210-pound frame.
The son of former NFL draft pick Sampson Satele, he plays inside and off-ball linebacker with high football IQ and coverage skills.
Prince Goldsby, an Ohio State commit, recorded 13.5 sacks and 22.5 tackles for loss as a junior.
He aims to make an early impact in Columbus as a full-time linebacker using his natural athleticism.
Isaac McNeil, an Auburn commit, chose his childhood dream school because of a strong connection with Coach Durkin and the staff, who made him feel like a high priority.
Sanders, a Vanderbilt commit, remains dedicated to Coach Lea and the defensive scheme, excited to play the hybrid 'star' position blending safety and linebacker duties.
