Heading into the 2025 NFL season, the Philadelphia Eagles boast the top-ranked linebacker unit, highlighted by standout Zack Baun, who earned a league-high 90.2 PFF grade last season. Newly drafted Jihaad Campbell is expected to bolster their already formidable group alongside Nakobe Dean and young talents like Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Smael Mondon Jr.

In the second spot, the Detroit Lions are represented by Jack Campbell, who is cementing his status as an emerging star after a strong 2024 season. The New England Patriots' linebacker corps is deepened by new acquisitions like Robert Spillane, while the Kansas City Chiefs rely on Nick Bolton and Leo Chenal to lead their defense.

Bucky Irving has quickly become a standout in the NFL, concluding his rookie year with an impressive 90.8 overall PFF grade, ranking him fourth among running backs. His versatility is evident as he achieved both a rushing and receiving grade above 90.0, a feat unmatched by any other player in his position. His contributions included 49 receptions and a notable 20 broken tackles after the catch, showcasing his playmaking ability.

Leo Chenal has established himself as a force on defense, earning a solid 85.9 overall PFF grade over the last three seasons. This places Chenal fifth among linebackers with significant snap counts. His 91.3 run-defense grade stands out, trailing only legends Bobby Wagner and Fred Warner.

Among other rising stars, Kenneth Walker III remains an underrated talent, consistently ranking in the top 20 for PFF grades despite battling behind a struggling offensive line. Zay Flowers has also shown promise, improving his performance significantly in his second year.

Jeffrey Bassa, the Kansas City Chiefs' fifth-round draft pick, expressed his excitement during his introductory press conference about joining a franchise renowned for its success. Citing the privilege of playing alongside stars like Patrick Mahomes and learning from veterans such as Nick Bolton and the legendary Andy Reid, Bassa emphasized the strong culture and history of the organization. Having transitioned from safety to linebacker, he believes this versatility will help him thrive in Kansas City's defensive schemes.

Last season at Oregon, Bassa showcased his skills, earning Honorable Mention All-Big Ten accolades with impressive statistics, including 54 tackles and two forced fumbles. His adaptability and eagerness to contribute to the team's goals positions him as a player to watch in the upcoming season.

The Arizona Cardinals have a mixed bag of success in their first-round picks over the last decade. Notable successes include Kyler Murray, who has already made a significant impact as the team's quarterback, highlighted by his Offensive Rookie of the Year award and two Pro Bowl selections. Meanwhile, Marvin Harrison Jr. and Paris Johnson Jr. promise to be integral parts of the team moving forward. However, the Cardinals have also had their share of disappointments, such as Josh Rosen and Robert Nkemdiche, whose performances fell short of expectations. The 2024 draft will be crucial as the Cardinals look to build on their successes and avoid repeating past mistakes.