Next Wave of Talent: Five Impact 2028 Linebackers

The Class of 2028 is already producing linebackers with the size, instincts, and competitive mindset that college programs look for early. Even at a young age, this group shows advanced football IQ, physicality, and the ability to impact the game from sideline to sideline. These linebackers bring a mix of downhill toughness, coverage ability, and leadership traits that project extremely well as they continue to develop. Their tape shows maturity beyond their grade level, and each prospect has the athletic foundation to become a major name in the recruiting world. As the 2028 cycle takes shape, these defenders stand out as some of the most promising linebackers in the class. Here's a breakdown of five 2028 linebackers you need to know.    [player_tooltip player_id='1462623' first='Alex' last='Goode'] is a physical, downhill linebacker who plays the game with urgency and aggression. He diagnoses run plays quickly and wastes no steps attacking the line of scrimmage. Goode's tackling technique is clean—he wraps, drives his feet, and finishes with power. His lateral movement is impressive, allowing him to scrape over the top and chase plays to the sideline. He also shows flashes of comfort in coverage, especially sitting in underneath zones. With his motor and toughness, Goode has the traits of a future defensive leader.     [player_tooltip player_id='609851' first='Antonio' last='Wynn'] is an explosive athlete at linebacker with impressive burst and acceleration. He closes space faster than most players his age, making him a true sideline-to-sideline defender. Wynn attacks downhill with confidence and delivers heavy contact at the point of attack. His ability to shed blocks is advanced, using strong hands and leverage to stay clean. In coverage, he moves fluidly and shows natural instincts when reading the quarterback's eyes. His combination of speed and physicality gives him high long-term upside.     Asa S. Thompson is a high-IQ linebacker who sees plays develop before they fully unfold. His anticipation allows him to beat blockers to the spot and disrupt run lanes. Thompson is a sound tackler with great balance and control, rarely missing in open space. He communicates well pre-snap, showing early signs of leadership and command of the defense. His change-of-direction ability allows him to mirror running backs and adjust quickly. Thompson's discipline and football IQ make him one of the most complete young linebackers in the class.     Cayden Branham is a long, athletic linebacker who uses his frame well to impact both the run and pass game. He covers ground with ease, using long strides to chase plays down from the backside. Branham plays with controlled aggression—physical when needed, but patient enough to avoid overcommitting. In coverage, his length helps him shrink throwing windows and create problems for quarterbacks. He attacks gaps with force and doesn't shy away from contact. As he continues to grow physically, Branham projects as a true three-down linebacker.     [player_tooltip player_id='1261454' first='Cortez' last='Carr'] Jr is a tough, instinctive linebacker with a natural feel for finding the football. He plays with excellent leverage and consistently wins at the point of attack. Carr Jr reacts quickly to misdirection, maintaining discipline and staying square to the ball. His tackling ability stands out, he hits with power and drives through ball carriers. He also shows promise as a blitzer, timing his rush well and creating disruption in the backfield. With his physicality and instincts, Carr Jr has the tools to become a dominant defensive presence.

The Class of 2028 is already producing linebackers with the size, instincts, and competitive mindset that college programs look for early. Even at a young age, this group shows advanced football IQ, physicality, and the ability to impact the game from sideline to sideline. These linebackers bring a mix of downhill toughness, coverage ability, and leadership traits that project extremely well as they continue to develop. Their tape shows maturity beyond their grade level, and each prospect has the athletic foundation to become a major name in the recruiting world. As the 2028 cycle takes shape, these defenders stand out as some of the most promising linebackers in the class. Here's a breakdown of five 2028 linebackers you need to know.