Five Inside Linebackers the Arizona Cardinals Could Draft
By Jeremy Meek
Reuben Foster is the best linebacker in the draft
There isn’t a more complete linebacker in this year’s NFL Draft than Alabama’s Reuben Foster. His combination of athleticism and intelligence is unmatched, and make him one of the top prospects available at any position.
Foster jumps of the screen as a player. The first thing to note is his speed. He plays sideline to sideline, and once he locates the ball, he’s a heat seeking missile. This is aided by his ability to read plays as well as anybody. He moves through traffic well, and once he gets to the ball carrier, he knows what to do, combining big hits with proper technique to get guys on the ground efficiently.
The team that drafts Foster will immediately add a top notch run defender. However, they will want to work on his pass defense. He has the speed to run with receivers, but must work on his technique.
The Cardinals will be picking 13th on draft day. This puts them in position to add an elite talent. Unfortunately, it might not be high enough to get Foster, who many think will go inside the top ten, or even top five. If he’s available, it will be difficult for Arizona to pass on such a tremendous talent at linebacker.