Drew Sanders 2023 NFL Draft Profile
I don’t think it’s a secret by now that I’m in on Drew Sanders. As we head into day two of the 2023 NFL Draft, Sanders remains on the board. I have Sanders listed as the best linebacker in the draft, but why? Let’s review the Arkansas linebacker’s 2023 NFL Draft profile!
Sanders was only a one year starter at Arkansas after spending most of his collegiate career at Alabama. Sanders was originally a five star recruited but was listed as an “athlete”. He never really had a home and played a lot of special teams during his Bama tenure. This one is going to take a bit of projection but it will depend on how you feel about Sanders’ potential light bulb moment.
The thing I like about Sanders is that he’s a fast linebacker that can also rush the passer. The guy is just going to be a weapon for whoever drafts him. No hair, don’t care that he didn’t run a 40. I know he’s fast and every recruiter in America knew that when he was in high school. There is a much different gear here compared to his teammate Bumper Pool.
The ceiling here is really high. Sanders carries that natural pass rush ability but aced the test in his transition to inside linebacker. Sanders was named to the first team All-SEC and All-American team. He was the best linebacker in America this past year and I don’t know how it’s arguable. In 12 starts, Sanders notched 103 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles. Sanders also recorded an interception and broke up five passes. Keep in mind, that was his first year at inside linebacker… That’s while playing for a Razorbacks team that took a step back in 2022 and didn’t have a Bama level supporting cast.
I have a firm second round grade on Drew Sanders. Someone that should develop into a high end starter and resembles everything you want from a modern linebacker. 6-foot-4, 235, and is a hell of an athlete. He’s one of my guys this year.
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