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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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Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) lines up for a play during the first quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Alabama defeated Washington 24-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) lines up for a play during the first quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Alabama defeated Washington 24-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

Inside Linebacker Rankings: Top-10 Grades

1. Reuben Foster, Alabama (6-1, 235) — Film Grade: 89.0

Quick Take: Foster is a true impact player as an inside linebacker. So far, he’s received the second-highest grade of any player I’ve evaluated for the 2017 draft class, falling closely behind defensive end Myles Garrett (92.5). Foster is not only a field general who can anchor a defense, he’s also an elite athlete with the speed, quickness, and smooth lateral movement to make plays all over the field. He’s a rare type of linebacker that can run-and-chase and make plays in pursuit, while also possessing the tenacity and strength to hold the point of attack and make plays between the tackles. He’s also solid in coverage and gives whomever drafts him a true three-down linebacker in the NFL. He’s a top-15 talent in the draft.

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

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