Stock Up: Emerging 2026 Linebackers Cracking The Rankings!

Today we will be taking a look at some linebackers that will be finding their name on the new rankings update. These are the players you will need to know as we continue into the offseason.    Neuenschwander showcases elite football instincts, consistently diagnosing plays and reacting with precision. When in pass coverage or run support, he shows the ability to make timely, explosive plays. He excels in dropping back into coverage, where he reads quarterbacks well and disrupts passing lanes, including a pick six last season. Against the run, Neuenschwander is quick to fill gaps and maintain leverage, rarely giving up ground. With a natural nose for the football and big play ability, he's poised for a breakout season and should quickly rise in the 2026 linebacker rankings.     Talkington is a downhill linebacker who thrives on physicality and aggressiveness. He reads run plays quickly, shooting the gaps with urgency, and delivering punishing hits on ball carriers. His ability to collapse the pocket and pressure quarterbacks adds another dimension to his game. Talkington forces quick decisions with his relentless pursuit, often disrupting the play before it develops. He's a classic run stuffer who can change the tone of a game. Expect Talkington to make a significant leap this season and become a name you need to know amongst linebackers.     Eslich plays with a high motor and sharp instincts, constantly making plays near the line of scrimmage. He tallied 85 total tackles last season, a testament to his productivity and consistency. Eslich excels at identifying plays early, attacking gaps, and creating backfield disruption. Whether it's a tackle for loss or pressure on the quarterback, he finds ways to impact games. With his proven output and ability to wreak havoc in opposing backfields, Eslich is a prime breakout candidate entering 2026.     Swigert brings physicality and versatility to the linebacker position. Known for delivering big hits and forcing turnovers, Swigert has a knack for knocking the ball loose from careless runners. He racked up nine tackles for loss and added four sacks, showing his effectiveness as a pass rusher and run defender. His athleticism allows him to contribute in coverage as well, where he notched an interception and clocked a 4.5 shuttle time. With his all around impact, Swigert is primed for a major step forward this season and could solidify himself as one of the top rising defenders in the class.     Leggett is a well rounded linebacker with the ability to affect the game in multiple ways. He is a menace off the edge, consistently pressuring quarterbacks and disrupting plays in the backfield. Leggett posted double digit tackles for loss and shows the strength and technique to shed blocks with ease. While he thrives near the line of scrimmage, he's also capable in coverage, having recorded an interception. With his physical tools and football IQ, Leggett is a stock riser to watch this season and could quickly move up the rankings with continued production.

Today we will be taking a look at some linebackers that will be finding their name on the new rankings update. These are the players you will need to know as we continue into the offseason.