Josh Allen, Akrum Wadley lead exciting prospects in Iowa vs. Wyoming

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IOWA CITY, IA – NOVEMBER 21: Quarterback Austin Appleby #12 of the Purdue Boilermakers is brought down in the second half by linebacker Josey Jewell #43 and defensive back Joshua Jackson #15 of the Iowa Hawkeyes on November 21, 2015 at Kinnick Stadium, in Iowa City, Iowa. (Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images) /

When I think of qualities that I want in an NFL linebacker, these are near the top of the list:

1. Toughness.

2. Speed.

3. Range.

4. Instincts.

5. Finishing ability.

6. Coverage ability.

7. Pass rush ability.

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Josey Jewell has every single one of these traits, and has looked like a pro for about three years now.

Iowa’s defensive captain and perhaps best all-around NFL prospect is an absolute stud at the linebacker position who can play at the line of scrimmage, one-on-one in coverage, and basically anywhere in between.

When it comes to diagnosing plays quickly, Jewell displays rare instincts that I haven’t seen in an Iowa linebacker since Chad Greenway. He’s extremely effective in coverage, picking off four passes as a sophomore and batting down nine a season ago.

A first-team AP All-American heading into 2017, Jewell is going to be a long-time starter in the NFL, so long as he stays healthy. His game translates to the next level perfectly, as there’s no situation where he’s a liability and has to come off the field. He defends the run and pass, and can play special teams as well.

I will be interested to see how well Jewell tests out at the Scouting Combine. Judging by his field speed, he will blow scouts away with his explosive athleticism.

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