Notre Dame linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah may be the most versatile player in the 2021 NFL draft. His unique skill set doesn’t make him a perfect fit for some teams, but he can be a gamechanger for others. Fast, rangy linebackers like JOK are a necessity as the NFL becomes more pass-heavy. Similar to Isaiah Simmons, who went fourth overall last year, JOK is a surefire first-round selection as well.
At Notre Dame, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah never played a true position. He lined up in the box, slot, and as a safety. His coverage skills are second to none. He goes step for step with slot receivers and doesn’t get outmuscled by tight ends. He possesses incredible speed and agility allowing him to be a chess piece for the defense.
In his final season at Notre Dame, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah totaled 47 tackles, 4 passes defended, and 3 forced fumbles. He blew up run plays and excelled in coverage, everything you need a linebacker to do. At his pro day, he showed off his elite burst running a 6.80-second three-cone, putting him in the 93rd percentile among linebackers.
As to who will be calling JOK’s name on draft night, Washington and Las Vegas are popular candidates. Washington owns the 19th pick and likely won’t have the opportunity to take any of the top quarterback prospects. Given their dominant defensive line, drafting Owusu-Koramoah will solidify an already great defense. Chase Young and co provide enough pass-rush alone. Having JOK drop back into coverage will give them a strong chance at making the playoffs yet again.
The Raiders own the 17th pick and if they decide to forgo offensive line, Owusu-Koramoah should be the pick. Corey Littleton has been a disaster for them and it showed. JOK would be a do-it-all player for the Raiders dropping into coverage, making plays in the backfield, and covering slot receivers and tight ends. He would be a great fit for a defense that is desperate for a playmaker.
