Life as a freshman linebacker can be difficult. Adjusting to the physicality and speed of college football, plus handling the mental demands often required at the position, creates a steeper learning curve. But recent examples such as LSU’s Harold Perkins Jr. in 2022 and Texas’ Anthony Hill Jr. in 2023 show it’s possible for true freshmen to step in and flourish immediately.
The 2024 class has six linebackers rank among the top 50 prospects, including three five-stars, so there’s room for this class to impact the 2024 season. Here is how the 10 top linebackers in the 2024 ESPN 300 fit their new teams and who could quickly become a name to know in college football.
ESPN 300 rank: 7 and 20
The Bulldogs’ inside linebacker room has more stars than the Pentagon. Despite losing contributors like Jamon Dumas-Johnson and Xavian Sorey Jr. to the transfer portal, UGA returns 2021 five-star Smael Mondon Jr. and 2023 five-star Raylen Wilson, while 2023 ESPN 300 linebacker C.J. Allen also emerged as a true freshman last year. Now, Georgia adds two more five-stars into the mix in Williams and Cole, who were part of the top-ranked recruiting class in the country.
Georgia’s returners might have an edge, but both Williams and Cole are immensely talented, and keeping them on the sideline might be tough. Williams will find ways to contribute. He’s one of the fastest inside linebackers in the country and posted a 4.44 laser-timed 40-yard dash last spring. His speed translates to the field, where he tallied 100 tackles as a high school senior. Williams shares similar traits to Mondon and is in an ideal position to learn from — and eventually replace — the fellow five-star.
Cole can’t be discounted, either. He was a big riser in the rankings over the past year and could make an impact as a freshman. Cole possesses excellent length, range and versatility. Georgia could get creative in deploying the smooth-moving linebacker, who can also be effective in coverage.
Every defensive coordinator desires Georgia’s depth at this position. It’s arguably…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at www.espn.com – Notre Dame Fighting Irish…