What he brings: Roquan Smith is lean linebacker prospect who can run and brings great range and athleticism to the position. He is an upside guy that is better in space at this stage than defending at the point of attack. Smith really excels in this facet with his length and athleticism. He can turn and get depth in coverage, and closes fast underneath giving up little yardage after the catch. He puts himself in position to make plays, and has very good ball skills.

Who he reminds us of: (Sean Weatherspoon -- Missouri) Weatherspoon was 6-foot-1, 195-pounds out of high school, but quickly blossomed physically at Missouri while keeping his great range and athleticism. We see the same potential and college production.

Teams with biggest need at the position: Wisconsin: Starters Derek Landisch and Marcus Trotter have graduated, along with reserves Ben Ruechel and Sherard Cadogan. There is experience returning, but depth has to be built heading into the 2015 season.

Texas: The Longhorns lose the two leading tacklers off of the 2014 team, senior linebackers Jordan Hicks (147 tackles) and Steve Edmond (131 tackles). Reserves Tevin Jackson and Demarco Cobbs are also gone, meaning four players that accounted for more than 300 tackles last season have departed.

TCU: If there is a potential weak spot for the Horned Frogs in 2015, it’s undoubtedly linebacker with the loss of starters Paul Dawson and Marcus Mallett, who combined for 236 tackles and 31.5 tackles for loss in 2014.

Georgia: The Bulldogs lose Ramik Wilson and Amarlo Herrera to graduation, and lack ideal depth for Jeremy Pruitt's scheme. Though edge players Leonard Floyd, Jordan Jenkins, and Lorenzo Carter are all likely to return, adding key pieces at inside linebacker and overall depth at the position is key if Georgia is to take the next step defensively.

Ole Miss: The Rebels are set to lose Serderius Bryant and Deterrian Shackelford to graduation. Though the defensive line will be one of college football’s best in 2015, replacing two key players at linebacker and adding depth will be key.

Other top uncommitted linebackers

ILB John Houston -- The top linebacker on the board is as rangy and athletic as you will find defending in the second level.

OLB Jeffery Holland -- Holland is a big, physical linebacker who is at his best playing downhill and rushing the passer. Ideal guy for a 3-4 scheme at the next level.

OLB Osa Masina -- This young man has all the measurables and is very athletic and active around the football.