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As the NFL begins summer scouting for the 2025 draft, scouts and analysts are beginning to notice a recurring trend: a scarcity of top-tier linebacker prospects. This is reminiscent of the challenges faced in the 2024 draft. A shortage at the linebacker position raises concerns for teams in need of defensive playmakers, as they seek to address crucial gaps in their rosters. With the league evolving towards faster-paced offenses and versatile defensive schemes, the demand for agile and instinctive linebackers has never been greater, but traditional linebackers are still needed and they are becoming a more rare breed. As franchises weigh their draft priorities and explore alternative avenues to bolster their linebacker corps, the 2025 draft promises to be a test of scouting acumen and resourcefulness in uncovering hidden gems amidst the scarcity of linebacker prospects.
The Dallas Cowboys find themselves navigating a challenging landscape at the position as they prepare for the upcoming season. Despite selecting Marist Liufau in the third round of the 2024 draft, the team’s defensive roster remains relatively thin in this crucial area. Following veteran middle linebacker Leighton Vander Esch’s retirement due to a neck injury suffered early in the 2023 season, the Cowboys sought to fill the void by signing Eric Kendricks to a one-year deal. Kendricks, known for his prowess on the field, particularly under the guidance of newly acquired defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, is expected to play a pivotal role, assuming the responsibilities of the green dot for communication and quarterbacking the defense.
Meanwhile, the anticipation builds for the return of DeMarvion Overshown, the promising 2023 third-round pick and safety convert, who showed great potential as a weakside linebacker before an ACL injury sidelined him last season. Damone Clark’s transition to the strong side linebacker position in 2023 yielded mixed results, prompting uncertainty about his role moving forward. Markquese Bell, a safety, demonstrated his versatility by excelling as the team’s starting weakside linebacker in 2023, though he will return to his original position.
As the Cowboys head into training camp, they will evaluate a mix of undrafted free agents and practice squad members, all vying for a chance to make their mark on the team’s linebacker corps. The future is far from concrete at the linebacker position. Here’s a look at some names to watch at the position for the 2025 NFL draft.