As the 2026 college football season rapidly approaches, Greg McElroy has sparked an intriguing debate with his ranking of the top 10 linebacker units in the sport. In a recent podcast episode, McElroy, a former Alabama linebacker himself, delved into the intricacies of each team's linebacker corps, highlighting the key players and factors that contribute to their success.
The Linebackers' Impact
One thing that immediately stands out is the immense influence that linebackers can have on a team's overall performance. These players are often the unsung heroes, quietly making game-changing plays that can shift the momentum of a game. From tackling to pass coverage, their versatility and skill set are crucial in today's fast-paced and dynamic college football landscape.
Clemson's Star: Sammy Brown
Starting with Clemson at number 10, McElroy singles out Sammy Brown as a standout performer. Brown's impressive stats, including 107 tackles and 13.5 tackles for loss, showcase his dominance on the field. It will be fascinating to see if Brown can maintain this level of productivity and help Clemson bounce back after a challenging season.
Georgia's Depth
At number 9, Georgia's linebacker group boasts depth and experience. Raylen Wilson, Chris Cole, and Justin Williams return after contributing to the Bulldogs' SEC wins. McElroy praises defensive coordinator Glenn Schumann for consistently producing talented linebackers in Athens.
Pittsburgh's Hungry Group
Pittsburgh's linebackers, led by Braylen Lovelace, are described as a "hungry group" by McElroy. Despite the loss of Rahseem Biles, who transferred to Texas, Lovelace and returning players like Jeremiah Marcelin are expected to make an impact. Their performance will be crucial in determining Pittsburgh's success this season.
Texas Tech's New Duo
Texas Tech, ranked 7th, will rely on Ben Roberts and Austin Romaine to fill the void left by Jacob Rodriguez. Roberts and Romaine bring different strengths to the table, with Roberts excelling in tackles and Romaine recognized as an All-Big 12 Second Team player. Their ability to work together as a "strong starting duo" will be pivotal for Texas Tech's playoff aspirations.
Texas' Offseason Move
Texas, at number 6, has strengthened its linebacker unit by adding Rasheem Biles from Pittsburgh. Biles' impressive stats from last season suggest he could be a game-changer for the Longhorns. McElroy believes this move has made Texas' linebacker group slightly stronger, despite the loss of Anthony Hill.
A&M's Transfer Addition
Texas A&M, ranked 5th, had to address its linebacker group during the offseason. The addition of Ray Coney, a transfer from Tulsa with impressive tackle numbers, fills a crucial gap. Daymion Sanford, another player to watch, also brings valuable experience to the Aggies' defense.
Indiana's Title-Winning Duo
Indiana's linebackers, Rolijah Hardy and Isaiah Jones, played a significant role in the Hoosiers' national title win last year. With Hardy and Jones returning, Indiana is well-equipped to compete for another championship. Their tackle and sack numbers from the 2025 season highlight their dominance on the field.
Auburn's Surprise Factor
Auburn's linebackers, led by first-team All-SEC selection Xavier Atkins, could be the surprise package of the season. Atkins' performance in 2025, where he led the SEC in tackles for loss, is a testament to his talent. Elijah Melendez and Demarcus Riddick join him, forming a formidable trio.
Oklahoma's Athletic Duo
Owen Heinecke and Kip Lewis are the anchors of Oklahoma's talented linebacker group. Their stats from the 2025 season speak for themselves, with Heinecke and Lewis consistently making an impact. McElroy highlights their natural athleticism as a key factor in Oklahoma's success.
Notre Dame's Program Identity
At the top of McElroy's list is Notre Dame, whose linebackers have become a "program identity." Players like Drayk Bowen, Jaylen Sneed, and Jaiden Ausberry form a deep and talented room. McElroy believes Notre Dame's linebacker unit is not only the deepest but also potentially the most dangerous in college football.
Final Thoughts
As we eagerly await the 2026 college football season, McElroy's rankings provide an insightful glimpse into the importance of linebacker units. From individual stars to well-rounded groups, these players will undoubtedly shape the outcomes of many games. Personally, I find it fascinating how a single position can have such a profound impact on a team's success. It's a reminder that, in football, every player has a crucial role to play.
