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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 29, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Cougars linebacker Steven Taylor (41) attempts to tackle Central Florida Knights quarterback McKenzie Milton (10) during the fourth quarter at TDECU Stadium. The Cougars won 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 29, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Cougars linebacker Steven Taylor (41) attempts to tackle Central Florida Knights quarterback McKenzie Milton (10) during the fourth quarter at TDECU Stadium. The Cougars won 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

10. Steven Taylor, Houston (6-0, 225) — Film Grade: 74.0

Quick Take: From a pure trait perspective, Taylor may not check many boxes as a linebacker prospect. He has a squatty build and possesses limited athleticism and straight-line speed. Despite this, the former Houston Cougar still finds ways to make plays on the field, which should still hold some weight in draft war rooms. In his final two years as a starter in Houston’s defense, Taylor recorded 18.5 sacks, 26.5 tackles for loss, and four forced fumbles. Taylor often wins the leverage battle at the point of attack and he has as short-area burst that helps him turn the corner and get after the quarterback. In the very least, Taylor is an interesting prospect, but I’m just not sure how well his game translates to the NFL.

Traits: 1. Athletic Ability (6/10)  2.Speed (7/10)  3. Mental Processing (8/10)  4. Strength (3/5)  5. Impact/Production (9/10)  6. Inside Run Defense (8/10)  7. Outside Run Defense (6/10)  8. Pass Coverage (7/10)  9. Pass Rush (4.5/5)  10. Block Shedding (3/5)  11. Motor (4.5/5)  12. Toughness/Physicality (4/5)  13. Tackling (4/5)

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