The 2026 college football season is fast approaching, and Greg McElroy, a former Alabama linebacker, has ranked the top 10 linebacker units in the sport. His podcast, 'Always College Football With Greg McElroy', provides an insightful look at the upcoming season. Here's a breakdown of his rankings and the commentary behind them:
- Notre Dame Fighting Irish: McElroy places Notre Dame at the top, praising the program's identity at linebacker. He highlights players like Drayk Bowen, Jaylen Sneed, Jaiden Ausberry, Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa, and Madden Faraimo as a deep and talented group. This unit's potential for dominance is a key factor in McElroy's ranking.
- Oklahoma Sooners: Owen Heinecke and Kip Lewis anchor a highly regarded linebacker group. McElroy acknowledges their talent and notes that Heinecke's return significantly impacts the team's performance. The natural athleticism of Lewis further cements the Sooners' strong showing.
- Auburn Tigers: Auburn's linebackers are a surprise contender, according to McElroy. He praises Xavier Atkins, a first-team All-SEC selection, and the development of Elijah Melendez. The unit's potential for a successful season is a notable aspect.
- Indiana Hoosiers: Despite the loss of Aiden Fisher, Indiana's linebackers remain strong with Rolijah Hardy and Isaiah Jones. McElroy highlights their impressive statistics from the previous season, indicating a consistent and dominant unit.
- Texas Longhorns: Texas's linebacker unit is considered stronger this season, despite the loss of Anthony Hill. The addition of Rasheem Biles from Pittsburgh is a significant boost. McElroy discusses the team's potential for a successful season.
- Texas A&M Aggies: Mike Elko's quick recruitment during the portal period addresses the linebacker group's needs. Daymion Sanford's impressive statistics last year make him a key player to watch. McElroy discusses the Aggies' potential for a strong showing.
- Pittsburgh Panthers: The Panthers' linebacker group is led by Braylen Lovelace, who had a strong performance last year. McElroy acknowledges the loss of Rahseem Biles but remains optimistic about the unit's capabilities.
- Georgia Bulldogs: Georgia's linebacker group, led by Raylen Wilson, Chris Cole, and Justin Williams, has a strong foundation. McElroy praises the defensive coordinator/inside linebackers coach, Glenn Schumann, for his talent-producing abilities.
- Texas Tech Red Raiders: Ben Roberts and Austin Romaine form a strong starting duo for Texas Tech. McElroy discusses their potential to reach the College Football Playoff, highlighting their impressive statistics from the previous season.
- Clemson Tigers: Clemson's linebacker unit is led by Sammy Brown, who had an outstanding performance last year. McElroy acknowledges Brown's productivity and expresses hope for the team's recovery this season.
McElroy's rankings provide a comprehensive look at the upcoming season, offering insights into the strengths and potential of each team's linebacker units. His commentary adds a layer of depth, making the analysis engaging and thought-provoking for college football enthusiasts.
