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2017 NFL Draft big board: Top 10 linebacker prospects

By Dan Dahlke

Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) celebrates after a play during the second quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) celebrates after a play during the second quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 22, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers linebacker Duke Riley (40) celebrates as Mississippi Rebels quarterback Chad Kelly (10) looks on following a defensive stop during the second half of a game at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Mississippi 38-21. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers linebacker Duke Riley (40) celebrates as Mississippi Rebels quarterback Chad Kelly (10) looks on following a defensive stop during the second half of a game at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Mississippi 38-21. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Duke Riley, LSU (6-1, 230) — Film Grade: 75.0

Quick Take: Along with Lee and Cunningham, Riley is one of the better linebacker prospects in coverage. He has loose hips and moves well in space. He has quick change of direction ability and good straight-line speed, which helps him track down ball carriers outside the tackle box. He performed well when asked to defend tight ends down the seam or pick up a halfback coming out of the backfield in the passing game. His size and lack of strength as an interior defender could be a concern, especially if he’s asked to take on blocks. Riley is probably best suited as a 4-3 weakside defender or nickel linebacker in a 3-4 system.

Traits: 1. Athletic Ability (9/10)  2.Speed (9/10)  3. Mental Processing (8/10)  4. Strength (2.5/5)  5. Impact/Production (7/10)  6. Inside Run Defense (6/10)  7. Outside Run Defense (9/10)  8. Pass Coverage (9/10)  9. Pass Rush (2/5)  10. Block Shedding (2/5)  11. Motor (4/5)  12. Toughness/Physicality (4/5)  13. Tackling (3.5/5)

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