Sporting News draft analyst runs down top linebackers and safeties.

[cowboyjoe]

2012 NFL Draft: Zach Brown, Sean Spence, Kenny Tate lead linebacker class

PUBLISHED Saturday, Aug 13, 2011 at 2:37 pm ED
Russ LandeSporting News

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With almost half the teams in the NFL using a 3-4 scheme and many defenses switching between 3-4 and 4-3 fronts during games, the versatility of linebackers has become much more important. It’s very difficult for linebackers who are one-dimensional to be successful in the NFL, so we put an extra emphasis on all-around ability in our ratings. Here’s a breakdown of the 10 best draft prospects at linebacker heading into the college season:

1. Zach Brown, OLB, North Carolina. Despite being tremendously productive, Brown (6-2 3/8, 231) has been overshadowed much of his career by other highly rated Tar Heels defenders. He is able to make plays all over the field because he has rare explosiveness and top-end speed. He has the shown the ability to track down fast ballcarriers in pursuit. He also does a good job covering tight ends in man coverage and is effective in zone coverage. Projection: First-round pick.


Read more: http://aol.sportingnews.com/nfl/sto...rojected-to-be-first-round-pick#ixzz1VxRVFMca

 

[cowboyjoe]

2012 NFL Draft: Markelle Martin tops safeties class with athleticism

PUBLISHED Sunday, Aug 14, 2011 at 2:25 pm EDT




1. Markelle Martin (6-1, 200), senior, Oklahoma State

Alabama senior Mark Barron is not as effective covering slot receivers in man-to-man due to a lack of top recovery speed. (SN Photo)

Martin is an aggressive defender who does an excellent job of attacking the play and making hard, violent hits. He is a smart and instinctive defender who understands passing concepts well. While he is a big hitter, he has just adequate size for the position. Bigger backs can give him trouble. More than anything, Martin has elite athleticism, great coverage skills and is very good in run support, which is why he's the best safety in the country entering 2011. PROJECTED: Second round.


Read more: http://aol.sportingnews.com/nfl/sto...ties-class-with-nfl-athleticism#ixzz1VxRegGxr