As the 2026 college football season approaches, former Alabama linebacker and podcast host Greg McElroy has ranked the top 10 linebacker units in the sport. In his rankings, McElroy offers a unique perspective, blending his expertise with personal commentary and analysis. Here's a breakdown of his top 10, with a focus on the insights and opinions that make this list truly engaging.
10. Clemson Tigers
McElroy places Clemson at No. 10, citing the impressive performance of Sammy Brown. With 107 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, seven pass breakups, and an interception, Brown was a force to be reckoned with. "He’s arguably the most productive individual linebacker by raw statistics anywhere in college football," McElroy proclaims. However, the team's success will depend on whether the rest of the linebackers can step up and provide similar production.
9. Georgia Bulldogs
Despite losing CJ Allen, the Bulldogs remain strong with Raylen Wilson, Chris Cole, and Justin Williams. McElroy praises defensive coordinator/inside linebackers coach Glenn Schumann for his consistent production of linebacker talent. The Bulldogs' depth and experience make them a formidable unit, and McElroy expects them to continue their winning ways in 2026.
8. Pittsburgh Panthers
Led by Braylen Lovelace, who had 41 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and two interceptions last year, the Panthers are a force to be reckoned with. Although they lost Rahseem Biles to Texas, McElroy believes Lovelace and the returning Jeremiah Marcelin will keep the unit strong. The coaching staff's description of the linebackers as a "hungry group" adds an intriguing layer to the team's prospects.
7. Texas Tech Red Raiders
With the departure of Jacob Rodriguez, the Red Raiders turn to Ben Roberts and Austin Romaine. Roberts, with 85 tackles and four tackles for loss, and Romaine, an All-Big 12 Second Team player from Kansas State, form a strong starting duo. McElroy highlights the importance of their production, noting that they will be key to Texas Tech's College Football Playoff aspirations.
6. Texas Longhorns
Despite losing Anthony Hill, the Longhorns' linebacker unit is still strong. McElroy points out the addition of Rasheem Biles from Pittsburgh, who had 101 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, and two interceptions last year. The unit's depth and experience make them a contender in the SEC.
5. Texas A&M Aggies
After losing a few key players, including Scooby Williams, the Aggies turned to Ray Coney, a transfer from Tulsa with 129 tackles. McElroy notes the quick closing of the portal by Mike Elko, highlighting Daymion Sanford's 94 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, and one interception. The Aggies' linebacker unit is a work in progress but shows promise for the future.
4. Indiana Hoosiers
Although Aiden Fisher has moved on to the NFL, the Hoosiers remain strong with Rolijah Hardy and Isaiah Jones. Hardy, with 102 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, and eight sacks, and Jones, with 78 stops, 15.5 tackles for loss, and seven sacks, form a dynamic duo. McElroy expects them to help Indiana compete for another national title.
3. Auburn Tigers
Auburn's linebacker unit is a surprise contender, according to McElroy. Xavier Atkins, a first-team All-SEC selection, is back, and Elijah Melendez and Demarcus Riddick add depth. McElroy praises Atkins' performance, noting his leadership and production. The unit's potential to turn Auburn into a surprise team is a fascinating prospect.
2. Oklahoma Sooners
With Owen Heinecke and Kip Lewis anchoring the unit, the Sooners have a talented and athletic linebacker group. McElroy highlights Heinecke's return as a game-changer and praises Lewis' natural athleticism. The duo's leadership and production make them a strong contender for the top spot, though McElroy ultimately ranks them second.
1. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
McElroy's top-ranked unit is Notre Dame, where the linebackers have become a "program identity." The unit, featuring Drayk Bowen, Jaylen Sneed, Jaiden Ausberry, Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa, and Madden Faraimo, is deep, talented, and dangerous. McElroy believes they have the most dominant linebacker room in college football, citing their versatility and leadership. The Fighting Irish's linebacker unit is a force to be reckoned with, and McElroy's ranking reflects their potential to make a deep run in the playoffs.
A Broader Perspective
McElroy's rankings offer a fascinating glimpse into the strengths and weaknesses of each team's linebacker units. His personal commentary adds depth and insight, providing a more nuanced understanding of the sport. As the season unfolds, these units will be crucial in determining which teams rise to the top and which fall by the wayside. The battle for linebacker supremacy will be a key factor in shaping the narrative of the 2026 college football season.
