We recently discussed that the Big Ten was full of elite inside linebackers, but the outside linebacker position was a bit more scarce for talent. Ohio State has another stud that should continue to ride the momentum of their impressive 2022 season into 2023 and the Penn State Nittany Lions have another dynamic linebacker and another young back waiting to explode this season as well.
It is comforting that we have dove into defensive end, defensive tackle, inside linebacker and now outside linebacker and a Buckeye has made every single list, but it is also interesting that there have been so many Penn State representatives as well. Let’s dive into the top three outside linebackers in the Big Ten.
3
Abdul Carter, Penn State
Why the Pick
Abdul Carter led the Nittany Lions in sacks last season with 6.5 and he also racked up an impressive 10.5 tackles for loss as just a true freshman. Carter is one of the splash players in an extremely talented defense.
Not sure the casual football fan is ready for Abdul Carter pic.twitter.com/m5hT1gfUfb
— Hardcore Penn State Football (@HardcorePSUFB) March 1, 2023
2
Steele Chambers, Ohio State
Why the Pick
The Buckeye linebackers do an elite job against the run and Steele Chambers is another backer who stands up ball carriers and sheds blocks extremely effectively. Chambers is built like a brick house and still moves like the running back he was recruited as. His quick transition to such a high-end backer is surprising and hopefully, he can keep improving.
Steele Chambers is gonna be a menace this season 💯pic.twitter.com/5UKXMoFNN0
— BIA 🌰 (@Buckeye_Zone6) May 4, 2023
1
Curtis Jacobs, Penn State
Why the Pick
Curtis Jacobs this high is based more on projection because he has such unique athleticism. If Jacobs can become a more reliable tackler, he will hear his name called early on draft day.
Don’t think people realize just how big it is to have Curtis Jacobs return to Penn State for the 2023 season.
He’s going to go crazy this fall 🦁 pic.twitter.com/JXUoTxgICp
— The Basic Blues Podcast (@BasicBluesPod) March 30, 2023
