Breaking Down All the Ranked 2027 Linebackers

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As we continue our series breaking down all of the ranked players in the 2027 class, we've come to an interesting group of linebackers. Ranging from long future edge rushers to stout run defenders, this is a solid group and it will only grow as we get eyes on more younger prospects.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Which 2027 Linebackers Are Ranked?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='949642' first='Michael' last='Griffin'], 5'11 205, Chambers</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>If you want a linebacker who can do it all, Griffin is your guy. Whether he's shooting gaps as a pass rusher or downhill run defender, working sideline-to-sideline, or dropping in coverage, Griffin is smooth and in control. If he grows just a little more, he'll likely be one of the top-ranked linebackers in the country.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='651173' first='Quinton' last='Cypher'], 6'2 205, Millbrook</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Cypher possesses good — not elite — athleticism, but his instincts put him in the right position to make huge plays. He's a big hitter who isn't afraid to get dirty in the running game or drop back in coverage. His ball production as a freshman was elite, as he racked up 155 tackles and forced five turnovers.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='918776' first='Elijah' last='Chaffin'], 6'4 205, Davie County</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A multi-sport athlete, Chaffin is still a bit raw as a pure middle linebacker. However, his athleticism and size give him elite potential. He has the most room for improvement in zone coverage, being able to feel routes across the middle, but he's a sure tackler who could eventually become an edge rusher if needed.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1029787' first='Matthew' last='McCoy'], 6'2 185, Providence Day</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>McCoy was able to see action late in games for Providence Day last season and has a lot of potential as a future key contributor. He racked up 20 tackles, including two for loss last season, and should get some more playing time as a sophomore. He's a two-sport athlete and one I've got my eye on moving forward.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1106598' first='Bradley' last='Byrd'], 5'11 205, Oak Grove</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Byrd was extremely productive as a freshman in every way that you'd want your linebackers to be productive. He excelled in pass coverage, against the run, and as a pass rusher, putting up excellent numbers. He's a guy I'd really like to see in person to see if his size and speed match his tape.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Other 2027 Linebackers on our Radar</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1149026' first='Finn' last='Morgan']</strong>, 6'2 205, Pinecrest</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1321326' first='Jace' last='Goodwin'], </strong>5'9 210, Providence Day</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1234087' first='Rex' last='Conlon'], </strong>6' 175, Weddington</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->