2025 NFL Free Agents: Inside Linebacker

Zack Baun was one of the top linebackers in the NFL last year. He was good against the run and elite in coverage.

Dre Greenlaw barely played last year because of a torn ACL. He was sorely missed as an exceptional linebacker who thrives in both coverage and run support.

Robert Spillane really thrived under Antonio Pierce. We’ll see if he can keep it up with a new coach.

Nick Bolton is a well-rounded linebacker with no weaknesses. He’s played well for the Chiefs since the team drafted him in the second round.

Bobby Wagner’s coverage skills aren’t what they used to be, but he’s still an elite run defender.

Ernest Jones really improved Seattle’s run defense after he was acquired from Tennessee, but his coverage skills were lackluster.

Derrick Barnes was missed last year after he tore his MCL and PCL.

Jamien Sherwood played well last year, thriving against the run and being good enough in coverage.

Shaq Thompson is a talented linebacker, but he’s a 31-year-old coming off an Achilles tear.

Lavonte David’s coverage ability isn’t what it used to be at the age of 35, but he’s still a well-rounded linebacker.

The Chargers’ run defense took a colossal hit when Denzel Perryman was knocked out with an injury last season.

Devin Bush is coming off his best season as a pro. He was stellar in run support, but didn’t do well in coverage.

De’Vondre Campbell used to be an All-Pro linebacker, but his skills have diminished because of age.

Eric Kendricks used to be one of the top off-ball linebackers in the NFL. That’s no longer the case because his coverage skills have diminished, but he’s still strong in run support.

Cody Barton is very forceful against the run, but tends to get abused in coverage.

Zach Cunningham was barely used in Denver last year, but he had a solid season with the Eagles in 2023.

Elandon Roberts is a stalwart run defender, but struggles in coverage. At 31, Roberts could decline soon.

Devin White used to excel in coverage. Injuries have derailed his career, but he’s still just 27, so he can rebound.

E.J. Speed is an excellent run defender, but struggles in coverage.

Tyrel Dodson is a great coverage linebacker, but happens to be a big liability against the run.

Divine Deablo is a quality two-down linebacker who plays well versus the run, but struggles in pass coverage.

Anthony Walker is a quality linebacker when healthy, but he has suffered tons of injuries in recent years.