Under the Radar: 2026 OLBs Ready to Break Out This Offseason

The 2026 class is loaded with talent, but some outside linebackers (OLBs) still aren't getting the recognition they deserve. As the offseason heats up with camps, combines, and 7-on-7 tournaments, these underrated defenders have a prime opportunity to showcase their skills and earn the attention of college recruiters. Whether it's their speed off the edge, ability to cover in space, or knack for making big plays, these OLBs are poised to take their game to the next level. Here are a few names to keep an eye on as they gear up for a breakout offseason.    Chris Butler is an explosive edge defender with the speed and motor to be a game-changer on defense. He plays with relentless pursuit, showcasing strong tackling ability and a knack for making plays behind the line of scrimmage. Butler's quick first step allows him to win against offensive tackles, making him a serious pass-rushing threat. His frame and athleticism suggest he has plenty of room to develop into a dominant force at the next level. With a strong offseason of refining his technique, Butler could emerge as one of the top outside linebackers in his class.     Devin Riley is a high-energy linebacker with an impressive combination of speed and physicality. He excels in open-field tackling and has the ability to drop into coverage, making him a versatile asset for any defense. Riley has great instincts, reading plays quickly and closing gaps before ball carriers can break free. His work ethic and natural athleticism make him a prime candidate for a breakout offseason. With added strength and refinement in his pass-rushing moves, he has the potential to be a highly recruited prospect in 2026.     Rufus Boone Jr is a hard-hitting outside linebacker with a nose for the football. He thrives in run support, using his strong upper body and sound technique to shed blocks and disrupt plays. Boone's lateral quickness and ability to change direction make him effective in both blitzing situations and coverage assignments. He's shown flashes of dominance, and with continued development, he could become a major name on the recruiting radar. His size, strength, and playmaking ability make him a must-watch prospect heading into the offseason.     [player_tooltip player_id='1322028' first='Brennan' last='Core'] is an athletic linebacker with excellent sideline-to-sideline range. His speed allows him to chase down ball carriers and make plays in space, a valuable trait for modern defenses. Core is an aggressive tackler who plays with great energy, never taking a play off. His ability to drop into coverage and disrupt passing lanes adds another dimension to his game. With a strong offseason of weight training and skill development, he has the potential to turn heads and gain serious recruiting attention.     Carnell Fluckum is a rising star at outside linebacker, known for his explosiveness off the edge. He has a natural ability to time the snap and use his quickness to beat blockers, creating havoc in the backfield. Fluckum also possesses strong hand technique, allowing him to disengage from linemen and make plays against the run. His football IQ and ability to recognize plays before they develop make him a dangerous defender. If he continues to develop his strength and refine his technique, expect him to be a name that gains traction in recruiting circles this year.

The 2026 class is loaded with talent, but some outside linebackers (OLBs) still aren't getting the recognition they deserve. As the offseason heats up with camps, combines, and 7-on-7 tournaments, these underrated defenders have a prime opportunity to showcase their skills and earn the attention of college recruiters. Whether it's their speed off the edge, ability to cover in space, or knack for making big plays, these OLBs are poised to take their game to the next level. Here are a few names to keep an eye on as they gear up for a breakout offseason.