2022 Under-The-Radar Linebackers

Our look at the Class of 2022’s diamond-in-the-rough prospects continues today as we transition to the linebackers. With training camp fast approaching, we will evaluate three tremendouds prospects, capable of climbing the rankings and turning heads this campaign. These three are versatile athletes, who play with an edge. All three have what it takes to lead a defense throughout their careers. These three top-tier linebackers are sure to make a huge impact on the 2021 season. [player_tooltip player_id="118736" first="Braydon" last="Carlson"], 6’1, 220 pounds, Hobart [player_tooltip player_id="118736" first="Braydon" last="Carlson"] is a two-way player who embraces the physical side of the game. Carlson plays at a high level at both linebacker and fullback for Hobart. Carlson is a very tough player, and he can be a tone-setter for the whole team. As a linebacker, Carlson is a very smart player, who demonstrates tremendous insticts. Carlson reads the play as it is unfolding, reacts and makes the play. He is an excellent tackler. Carlson gives great effort, and he frequently chases down the ball carrier. As a fullback, Carlson further proves his versatility. He is very fast, and he has good vision. Carlson is outstanding at cathiching passes out of the backfield, and he is a solid lead blocker. [player_tooltip player_id="147061" first="Ethan" last="Depinet"], 6’1, 215 pounds, Tri-West Hendricks [player_tooltip player_id="147061" first="Ethan" last="Depinet"] is a physical linebacker, capable of making an impact on every play. Depinet is a menace on the blitz. He gets right into the backfield, completely disrupting the play. Depinet is very fast. He covers so much ground on the field, and he can be that sideline-to-sideline defender that college coaches need. Depinet pursues the play extremely well, and he is relentless from snap to whistle. Depinet is a very sure tackler, and he finishes each play with authority. Depinet is very instinctive. He knows exactly where he needs to be on each play. Depinet takes on blocks very well, and he typically beats the block to make the play. [player_tooltip player_id="151037" first="Nicholas" last="Finney"], 6’2, 215 pounds, Lebanon [player_tooltip player_id="151037" first="Nicholas" last="Finney"] is a tenacious outside linebacker. Finney is an exceptional run defender. He sets the edge very well, denying the running back the opportunity to get outside, and giving the rest of the defense the chance to rally to the ball. Finney is a great pass rusher. He takes on blocks very well. Finney also contributes on special teams. He can be effective on the extra point/field goal block unit.