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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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Sep 10, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; Jacksonville State Gamecocks quarterback Eli Jenkins (7) is tackled by LSU Tigers linebacker Kendell Beckwith (52) and defensive end Arden Key (49)in the second quarter at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 10, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; Jacksonville State Gamecocks quarterback Eli Jenkins (7) is tackled by LSU Tigers linebacker Kendell Beckwith (52) and defensive end Arden Key (49)in the second quarter at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports /

7. Kendell Beckwith, LSU (6-2, 252) — Film Grade: *77.5

Quick Take: When Beckwith decided to return for his senior season last spring, I thought highly of his game and viewed him as a second-round prospect. However, after suffering a significant knee injury in spring practice, the LSU linebacker returned and played solid, but seemed to have lost some of his explosiveness. Another major knee injury (LCL) this past November has kept Beckwith out of the Senior Bowl and could sideline him from the combine and his pro day. When fully healthy, Beckwith is a tough, physical run defender with average speed and chase ability. He’s better in coverage than many expect, but he may be limited to a two-down role in the NFL. Unfortunately, Beckwith won’t be able to test this spring for scouts and get a chance to answer concerns about his athleticism and speed. I think he’s a Day 3 prospect at this point, despite some good film on record.

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

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