The 2026 college football season is fast approaching, and Greg McElroy, a former Alabama linebacker, has ranked the top 10 linebacker units in the sport. His podcast, Always College Football With Greg McElroy, provides an insightful look at the upcoming season. Here's a breakdown of his top 10 rankings, with a focus on the commentary and analysis that makes each selection intriguing.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish: McElroy's top-ranked unit, the Notre Dame linebackers, are a force to be reckoned with. He praises the depth and talent of Drayk Bowen, Jaylen Sneed, Jaiden Ausberry, Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa, and Madden Faraimo. The program's identity is centered around its linebackers, and McElroy believes this unit is the deepest and most dangerous in all of college football. What makes this unit particularly fascinating is the versatility and athleticism of its players, which could make them a defensive juggernaut this season.
Oklahoma Sooners: Owen Heinecke and Kip Lewis form a formidable duo at Oklahoma. Heinecke's return is a significant boost, and Lewis' natural athleticism is a game-changer. McElroy highlights the impact of these two on the team's overall performance. However, he also notes that the Sooners' success hinges on the development of their younger linebackers, which could be a key factor in their championship aspirations.
Auburn Tigers: Auburn's linebacker corps is a surprise contender, according to McElroy. Xavier Atkins, a first-team All-SEC selection, is a standout performer. McElroy also praises the development of Elijah Melendez, who made significant strides last year. The coaching staff's focus on this unit could be a turning point for Auburn, especially if they can build on the success of these two players.
Indiana Hoosiers: Despite the loss of Aiden Fisher to the NFL, Indiana's linebackers remain a force. Rolijah Hardy and Isaiah Jones are back to lead the charge. McElroy highlights their impressive statistics from the previous season, including tackles, tackles for loss, and sacks. The Hoosiers' ability to reload and maintain their dominance is a testament to their program's strength.
Texas Longhorns: Texas' linebacker unit is a bit stronger this season, despite the loss of Anthony Hill. The addition of Rasheem Biles from Pittsburgh is a significant boost. McElroy notes that Biles' performance last year was impressive, and his presence will be crucial for Texas' success. The Longhorns' ability to adapt and improve their linebacker corps is a positive sign for their playoff chances.
Texas A&M Aggies: Mike Elko's Aggies had to address their linebacker group during the offseason. The addition of Ray Coney, a transfer from Tulsa, is a strategic move. McElroy mentions Daymion Sanford as another player to watch. The Aggies' quick recruitment closure during the portal period is a testament to Elko's leadership. The development of these players will be crucial for Texas A&M's defensive success.
Texas Tech Red Raiders: Jacob Rodriguez's departure is a loss, but Ben Roberts and Austin Romaine are ready to step up. Roberts' 85 tackles and four tackles for loss, along with Romaine's All-Big 12 Second Team selection, make them a strong starting duo. McElroy believes that these two players will be key to Texas Tech's playoff run, especially after the impressive performance of Rahseem Biles last year.
Pittsburgh Panthers: The Panthers' linebacker group is led by Braylen Lovelace, who had a strong showing last year. McElroy acknowledges the loss of Rahseem Biles but remains confident in Lovelace and the returning players. The coaching staff's description of the linebackers as a 'hungry group' is a positive sign for Pittsburgh's defensive potential.
Georgia Bulldogs: Georgia's linebacker group is a strong contender, despite the loss of CJ Allen. Raylen Wilson, Chris Cole, and Justin Williams return to anchor the defense. McElroy praises the work of defensive coordinator Glenn Schumann, who has a history of producing talented linebackers. The Bulldogs' ability to maintain their success in the SEC is a testament to their program's stability.
Clemson Tigers: Clemson's linebacker unit is led by Sammy Brown, who had an impressive performance last year. McElroy describes him as one of the most productive individual linebackers in college football. The Tigers' ability to bounce back and improve their linebacker corps is a positive sign for their future success.
In my opinion, McElroy's rankings provide an insightful look at the upcoming season. His commentary and analysis add depth to each selection, making the rankings more than just a list of teams. The personal perspective and interpretation of each unit's strengths and weaknesses make this article a must-read for college football enthusiasts.
