2021 NFL Draft OLB rankings: Zaven Collins tops Micah Parsons for top spot
By John Blair
10. Jordan Smith, UAB
6-foot-6, 255 pounds
2021 NFL Draft grade: Fifth round
Jordan Smith started his career off at Florida but transferred to Butler Community College after getting in trouble for credit card fraud. He ended his career at UAB where he recorded 14.5 sacks in two years.
As a prospect Smith is a raw athlete who has the potential to develop into a starting 3-4 outside linebacker.
In order to earn a starting role though he is going to have to improve his football IQ. He often misreads running plays and will also get himself out of position while trying to make a tackle.
He will likely be stuck in a 3-4 defense as he doesn’t have the fluid hips to hold up in coverage or strength to shift a defensive end in a 4-3 defense.
11. Malcolm Koonce, Buffalo
6-foot-3, 250 pounds
2021 NFL Draft grade: Sixth round
Malcolm Koonce has established himself as one of the best pass rushers in the MAC after leading the conference in sacks in 2019 with nine. As a pass rusher, he shows good quickness off the ball and also has the long arms the NFL desires.
On the downside, he does slow down after his first couple of steps and also lacks the strength to hold his ground in the run game. Koonce is someone who will likely earn a spot as a backup linebacker in the NFL, and be a key contributor on special teams.