8. Mack Wilson, LB, Alabama
- Height: 6’1″
- Weight: 230
- Class: Junior
By far the most polished linebacker at this point, Mack Wilson continues the trend of top-tier linebackers to come out of Alabama in the last few seasons. It’s tough to follow in the shoes of someone like Reuben Foster, but Wilson has the chance to be just as good if not better. Everything is set for him to become the top linebacker in the country. He is a smart and disciplined linebacker capable of diagnosing plays and attacking downhill. He does well to get around blocks to make plays in the run game.
Plus, at only 231 pounds, Wilson also fits the mold of a hybrid linebacker capable of staying on the field all three downs. He has the speed and range to be a middle linebacker at the next level and to excel in coverage. Despite getting around blocks, his size will be an issue for more disciplined offensive linemen. Overall, Wilson is a very talented player.
7. Brian Burns, EDGE, Florida State
- Height: 6’4″
- Weight: 250
- Class: Junior
There always seems to be an edge player in every draft who has the elite bend to turn the corner with ease. That guy for the 2019 NFL Draft is Florida State pass rusher, Brian Burns. With shades of Harold Landry from the 2018 draft, Burns looks so smooth in his ability to turn the corner and get to the quarterback. He gets his hands where they need to be when he is turning the corner as well.
Despite him being labeled as mostly that type of guy, Burns has other moves in his arsenal. He is quick enough athletically for an inside move and can use hand placement as well. It will be interesting to see if he can develop more of a pass rush plan this season, but other than that, he looks to have a pretty high ceiling going forward.