A big reason for outside linebackers ranking so highly as a position (No. 2 of 13 in 2009 class) is the deep pool of hybrid DE/OLB types. Since we already detailed those top prospects in the Defensive Linemen Cheat Sheet, let's focus solely on the more traditional weakside, strongside and inside/middle linebackers for this unit overview.
Since there's no substitute for versatility in today's NFL, it's hardly surprising that this year's most-coveted prospect -- Wake Forest's Aaron Curry -- appears capable of thriving in multiple roles at the next level. He's big and strong enough to play inside in a 3-4 or 4-3 scheme. However, he also possesses the athleticism and instincts to play on the weakside of a four-man front.
Curry is a better athlete than A.J. Hawk (Packers; No. 5 pick in 2006) and he displays the same type of leadership potential as Patrick Willis (49ers; No. 11 overall in 2007) when he was coming out of Ole Miss. At this point it's difficult to imagine Curry slipping out of the top-five picks of April's draft, where picks No. 3 (Chiefs), 4 (Seahawks) and 5 (Browns) need a linebacker.
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