Scouting Reports:
Draft wire: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/devin-lloyd-scouting-report-2022-nfl-draft-utah-utes-football/
Walter football: https://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2022DLloyd.php
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/devin-lloyd
NFL Draft Buzz: https://www.nfldraftbuzz.com/Player/Devin-Lloyd-LB-Utah
How Devin Lloyd overcame tragedy (4-27-22): https://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-360-devin-lloyd-22
Finding NFL player comparisons for the top 32 prospects in the 2022 NFL Draft (Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah (TSN: Lawrence Timmons, Florida State (2007), NFL: Willie Gay, Mississippi State (2020), RAS: Clay Matthews, USC (2009)): Lloyd has the type of size and athleticism that excite NFL teams. At 6-3, 237 pounds, he's already built like an NFL linebacker, and his play as a redshirt junior proved that he's an impact talent as he racked up seven sacks, four interceptions and 111 total tackles, including 22 for a loss. The Sporting News has him as comparable to Florida State's Lawrence Timmons, another versatile linebacker capable of playing in any defense with a penchant for making plays. Like Lloyd, Timmons also ran a 4.66 40 with a 35 vertical and 25 bench reps.) (4-22-22): https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-player-comparisons-2022-nfl-draft/s5dzevmivykfsrkfx9ibccqt
2022 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Linebackers (1. DEVIN LLOYD, UTAH (BIG BOARD RANK: 15): There may be no better all-around linebacker in the class. Lloyd can take on blocks, blitz and cover tight ends at a high level, which is why he earned a 90.2 grade this year with above-average grades in every facet.) (4-22-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-2022-nfl-draft-rankings-linebackers-nakobe-dean-devin-lloyd
Utah LB Devin Lloyd talks NFL Draft with CBS Sports (4-20-22): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2022-nfl-draft-devin-lloyd-on-his-first-round-potential-strengths-as-a-prospect-and-confidence-in-coverage/
NFL Draft: Eight bold observations about 2022 class (We should be a little worried about Devin Lloyd in coverage - Starting scorching hot because everyone and their brother adores Lloyd as a prospect. I like him too. He's athletic, rangy, and plays with reckless abandon. He's just a bit of a project in coverage. And it's not really his fault. He's not as raw as, say, Kenneth Murray or Jordyn Brooks were -- two 2020 first-round linebackers -- but often he was deployed as a blitzer or edge rusher in college and was moderately successful in doing so, therefore I don't blame the Utah coaches. However, Lloyd is not Micah Parsons 2.0, so he's going to have to cover in the NFL, or he's going to be a liability for his team on 60% of the opposing offense's snaps. That's concerning.) (4-18-22): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-bold-observations-eight-unconventional-takeaways-from-studying-this-draft-class/
Lions draft picks: Ranking 5 best combinations for Detroit's two Round 1 selections (Combination 5 - No. 2: Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State. No. 32: Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah. This is a situation where you're picking Garrett Wilson too high and Devin Lloyd too low (it's hard to imagine him being on board at No. 32), but these two would address some massive positions of need for the Lions. Adding Wilson and Lloyd makes both sides of the ball better, and if Lloyd does nearly drop out of the first round this would be an incredible duo for the Lions to add. Wilson adds versatility to the receiving corps, whereas Lloyd can move all over the formation at linebacker for Detroit. This is a lot of talent to add to the roster, and even if Wilson is a reach at No. 2, wide receiver is such a massive hole for the Lions right now perhaps it's best to rip the Band-Aid off (and forget your organizational woes drafting receivers early).) (4-14-22): https://www.sportingnews.com/au/nfl/news/lions-draft-picks-ranking-5-combinations-detroit-round-1/acyxxrteujobzjszgqt33ymk
2022 NFL Draft: Malik Willis tops players with star potential (4. DEVIN LLOYD, LB, UTAH: Lloyd is a big-play machine, a versatile defender with pass-rush skills and sideline-to-sideline playmaking ability. Whether he is pursuing off the edge on blitzes or chasing runners down on "hit, run and chase" plays, Lloyd finds a way to get to the ball in key moments for his squad. And that playmaking potential matters to teams searching for a disruptive force on the second level. If Lloyd lands with a team that takes advantage of his versatility and skills, the former Ute could emerge as a Darius Leonard-type defender with an all-star game.) (4-14-22): https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2022-nfl-draft-malik-willis-tops-players-with-star-potential
NFL Mock Draft Stock Watch: Which players are rising and falling in experts' eyes in 2022? (NFL Mock Draft Stock Watch: Which players are rising and falling in experts' eyes in 2022? (The first round picks whose stock dropped slightly (5) - I have no idea why Lloyd, the most complete linebacker in the class, is sliding, though it could be related to his position as an off-ball linebacker who is only situationally used as a blitzer.) (4-14-22): https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-mock-draft-stock-watch-players-rising-falling
2022 NFL Draft: Ranking the top off-ball linebackers in this year’s class (Tier 1 - Devin Lloyd (Utah), 6-foot-2 1⁄2, 237 pounds: Lloyd is the epitome of what you want in a modern day middle linebacker. He has the prototypical size, athleticism, and versatility that all 32 teams are going to covet. Though he does not have the elite 4.4 speed that some of the other linebacker prospects in this class have, he is still an elite all-around athlete, and that much is obvious when you see him take the field. During his career at Utah, Lloyd finished with 255 total tackles, 43 tackles for a loss, 16.5 sacks, a forced fumble, 13 pass deflections, and 5 interceptions. 10 of those PDs and 4 of his INTs came in 2021, where he finished with an impressive 81.8 coverage grade via Pro Football Focus. Lloyd’s instincts and production when dropping back into coverage are tremendous, but it’s his impressive ability to sift through blockers and close on his targets for a TFL or a sack that sets him apart from the rest of his peers. He has an uncanny feel of where to be when he enters the trenches and almost always finds his way to finish the play on his terms. What you’re getting with Lloyd is someone you’ll never have to take off the field on defense and someone who can fit any scheme you throw at him. Outside of his inconsistent tackling efficiency (12.5% missed tackle rate over his career), he doesn’t have many holes in his game. Unfortunately, the Lions will probably not be in the range to take Lloyd unless they trade back from the second overall pick or trade up from 32. Crazier things have happened, though, as there are a few mocks out there that have mocked Lloyd to the Lions at 32. Round grade: Top-20 pick) (4-14-22): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/4/14/23020265/2022-nfl-draft-ranking-the-top-off-ball-linebackers-in-this-years-class
2022 NFL Draft preview: 5 linebackers that could interest the Lions (1. Devin Lloyd, Utah (6-3, 237. 4.66 40-yard dash): A 2017 redshirt and four-year player, with three years as a starter. Played 47 games. Highly productive the last three seasons after getting spot duty in 2018. Ruled the middle as an interior linebacker in 2021, making 22 of his 43 career tackles for loss, eight sacks, four interceptions and 110 tackles -- 66 solo and 44 assists. A versatile athlete, he had eight interceptions and punted his senior year in high school.) (4-14-22): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-preview-5-linebackers-lions-lloyd-dean-walker
2022 NFL draft: The top 11 linebackers (1
Devin Lloyd, Utah (Height: 6’3″ (82nd) Weight: 237 (51st), 40-Yard Dash: 4.66 seconds (52nd), Bench Press: 25 reps (80th), Vertical Jump: 35 inches (60th), Broad Jump: 10’6″ (91st)): Bio: A safety in high school, Devin Lloyd was a three-star recruit according to 247Sports. Coming out of Otay Ranch High School in Chula Vista, California, Lloyd originally committed to UNLV, but flipped to Utah in February of 2017, as the Utes provided him with his only offer from a Power Five school. Lloyd redshirted as a freshman, but saw action in all of Utah’s games during the 2018 season as a reserve. He stepped into a starting role for the 2019 season at linebacker, racking up 91 tackles, 6.5 sacks and an interception. During the 2020 season, Lloyd played in all five games of the shortened campaign, notching 48 tackles and a pair of sacks. Lloyd came back to school for his senior campaign, rather than enter the 2021 NFL draft. He led the Pac-12 with eight sacks, and notched another 66 tackles and four interceptions. He was named a First-Team All-American, and was the MVP of the Pac-12 Championship Game. Stat to Know: As we will see, Lloyd can impact the passing game in a number of ways. Pro Football Focus charted him with four forced incompletions (fourth among linebackers in college football) and 31 pressures, which was sixth among linebackers. Strengths: Lloyd is perhaps as complete a linebacker as it gets, and the fact the finds ways to impact the passing game makes him ideal for the modern NFL. He is a long defender who puts that length to use, impacting passing lanes, getting to the catch point in either man or zone coverage, or bursting off the edge when Utah aligned him as a pass rusher in passing situations. The Utes used him all over the field, putting him in the A-Gaps in mugged up looks to create pressure, or aligning him on the edge in a three-point stance in sub packages. Here is how that length shows up in coverage, as he gets to the seam route and prevents the completion. Then you can see the length off the edge, when Utah lets him attack off the outside. When used as a pass rusher, Lloyd showed solid technique, with a variety of pass-rushing moves including a cross/chop, a dip/rip and a violent hand swat technique. If he cannot get home, Lloyd’s length can still be disruptive off the edge, even against quick-game concepts. Lloyd displayed great awareness on the field, even when used in different roles. When Utah dropped him down to the edge, Lloyd would constantly fight to set that edge against the run, showing a great understanding of defensive structure and roles. A complete player in a rather deep class, Lloyd offers three-down ability on his first day in the league. Weaknesses: It is hard to find flaws in his game. Pro Football Focus noted that he missed some tackles — they charted him with a 11.5% missed tackle percentage — and that might be a concern. After all, as Bill Belichick loves to tell people, sometimes you lose games because you can’t tackle. Conclusion: Lloyd is a perfect modern linebacker, who can impact the passing game both as a rusher and a coverage player, and consistently finds ways to put himself in position to help when the offense keeps the ball on the ground. Personally, I will be stunned if he lasts too long on the first night of the draft. Comparison: When you think of the modern NFL linebacker, with the ability to impact the passing game in multiple ways, Fred Warner is the first name that comes to mind. In talking with others around the media landscape, this seems to be the common comparison. I have another comparison in mind, however, and it brings us to our first true “outside the box” comparison of this draft cycle… I have been playing a lot of “Elden Ring” these past few weeks. The game is punishing, and demoralizing at times, but I keep coming back for more. Those who have played the game probably have run into an Erdtree Avatar or two, these massive creatures that swing these huge hammers at you, and if you are not careful and get too close, you get one-shotted and have to reload. Their length, like the game, is punishing. That’s Lloyd.) (4-14-22): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2022-nfl-draft-nakobe-dean-devin-lloyd-quay-walker/
2022 NFL Draft: Linebacker prospect superlatives (BEST IN COVERAGE: DEVIN LLOYD, UTAH - PFF’s LB1 plays the linebacker position gracefully. He doesn’t have jaw-dropping athleticism, but at the same time, he makes everything look so easy. His ability to break on passes from any body position is exactly what evaluators want to see from a linebacker in coverage, and it led to four interceptions and three pass-breakups this past season.) (4-13-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-linebacker-prospect-superlatives
Top 10 Inside Linebackers in the 2022 NFL Draft: Devin Lloyd and Nakobe Dean lead the bunch (1. Devin Lloyd, Utah: The early-season LB1 among our top 2022 NFL Draft inside linebackers, Devin Lloyd has never deviated from that spot. As the 10th overall prospect on the Pro Football Network Top 300 Big Board, he’s the top-rated linebacker by each of our draft analysts. The Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year finished off his Utah career with 111 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, and 4 interceptions. The numbers don’t begin to tell the story of the impact that Lloyd has on the football field. He’s versatile enough to play any LB assignment. He’s athletic enough to play sideline to sideline, in space, and coming downhill. When he explodes downhill, Lloyd plays with a jarring physicality. Against the run, in coverage, and as a pass rusher, Lloyd is impactful as a dominant and disruptive presence in all phases of the game.) (4-5-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-inside-linebackers-in-the-2022-nfl-draft-devin-lloyd-and-nakobe-dean-lead-the-bunch/
Devin Lloyd shares how he is preparing for the '22 draft (4-5-22): https://www.nfl.com/videos/devin-lloyd-shares-how-he-is-preparing-for-the-22-draft
NFL Draft: Walker headlines buyer-beware prospects (Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah - Why: Limited coverage experience/expertise. Lloyd's film is an experience. You have to buckle in before watching. He's long, hyperactive, and strikes at all segments of the field as a run defender. From a physical perspective, Lloyd is that dude. He just didn't get nearly as much experience in coverage as I'd like for a first-round or potentially even top-20 selection. More often than not, Utah deployed him in a Micah Parsons-esque edge-rusher role in obvious passing situations. And while Lloyd generated the occasional pressure in that side job, he's not in the same stratosphere as the Cowboys' Parsons in terms of outside pass-rush ability. I don't even view him as that great of a blitzer despite his explosiveness and power. When Lloyd was asked to cover, he was fluid and instinctive; he'll just have to learn how to become productive in that area on the fly in the NFL. And when an NFL offensive coordinator knows a young linebacker is green in coverage, the game plan can often revolve around exploiting the youthful second-level defender in coverage. Ask 2020 first-round picks Kenneth Murray -- very similar physically to Lloyd -- Jordyn Brooks and Patrick Queen. Lloyd's run-defending brilliance will keep him on the field, as he'll be an asset in that regard. The coverage naivety concerns me at the outset of his pro career.) (4-4-22): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-buyer-beware-on-travon-walker-jermaine-johnson-and-these-other-top-prospects/
Utah football: Will Devin Lloyd be a top 5 NFL draft pick? (4-4-21): https://www.deseret.com/2022/4/4/23010632/utah-linebacker-devin-lloyd-2002-nfl-draft-top-5-pick-bruce-feldman-mock-draft-utah-utes-football
How Devin Lloyd and Nakobe Dean impact the passing game (Utah's Devin Lloyd a case study in length - As the adage goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words.” Studying Utah linebacker Devin Lloyd the past few days, this image kept coming to mind. There is Lloyd, playing underneath zone coverage and reading the quarterback’s eyes. On full display in this image? His length. Here is another image to put his length in context, courtesy of MockDraftable. Lloyd puts that length to use when the opposing quarterback drops to pass, helping to constrict throwing lanes when in underneath zone coverage. On this play against BYU, Lloyd works up the seam and breaks up a throw intended for the tight end on a vertical route. Another way Lloyd’s length shows up is illustrated in another way he impacts the passing game. One of the ways that off-ball linebackers can be a force when the opposing offense passes is by blitzing, and applying pressure to the quarterback. Both Lloyd and Dean are effective blitzers, particularly when attacking through interior gaps. But Utah also used Lloyd on the edge, whether in a two- or a three-point stance. While his primary alignment was as an inside linebacker, Lloyd saw 165 snaps on the edges. That led to moments like this. On this 2nd and long play, the Utes put six defenders on the line of scrimmage and mug the A-Gaps, but Lloyd aligns outside of the right tackle. The two interior linebackers drop into coverage as Utah rushes just four, with Lloyd coming off the edge. Washington State tries to throw a screen to the right, but you see Lloyd’s length again as he is able to not only get into the throwing lane, but snare the interception. That length and effort shows up when Utah put him on the edge and let him attack the passer. Lloyd effectively ends Utah’s win over Arizona State with this sack of Jayden Daniels, and you can see how Lloyd puts the length to use as a pass rusher. He first uses a long-arm technique — probably a smart move from him — and then is able to get a hand on Daniels even as the left tackle is trying to ride him outside the back of the pocket. Lloyd’s ability to use his length to impact the passing game, whether in underneath coverage or as a factor off the edge, is a big part of his evaluation. And a reason you will hear his name in the first round.) (3-23-22): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/devin-lloyd-nakobe-dean-2022-nfl-draft/
2022 NFL Scouting Combine Winners and Losers by the Numbers: Defensive Positions (Potential LB1 Nakobe Dean didn’t run at the combine, but top prospects Devin Lloyd, Christian Harris and Damone Clark all posted 85th or better percentiles for their WAR projections.) (3-8-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-scouting-combine-winners-losers-defense
All-Combine Team: Who crushed it at each position? (Devin Lloyd
Utah (Best team fits: New England Patriots, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, New York Giants): Lloyd was solid throughout Saturday evening, completing an excellent, efficient four-bag rep, exhibiting strong change-of-direction ability and fluidly dropping in coverage in backpedal and react drills. He made a great adjustment to complete a difficult catch in a drill designed to force linebackers to defend a running back on a wheel route and finished with the third-best Next Gen Stats overall draft score among linebackers. The Darius Leonard comparison is accurate, at least Saturday on the same field Leonard calls home.) (3-7-22): https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-all-combine-team-spotlighting-the-top-performers-at-each-position-in-indian
NFL Draft prospects 2022: Biggest risers, fallers from every position after NFL Combine (Riser: Chad Muma, Wyoming (6-3, 239 pounds) - Muma had himself a weekend with a 4.63 40, a 7.06 three-cone drill and an insane 40-inch vertical jump. He also showed his speed and quickness also come with sideline-to-sideline rage that makes it feel like he will make a seamless transition to tackling and playmaking monster in the NFL.) (3-7-22): https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-stock-watch-risers-fallers-2022-nfl-draft/amedc2vzhlwtmd63swg6kuhk
NFL draft: Winners and losers from the 2022 NFL scouting combine (Losers - Utah LB Devin Lloyd: He might still be LB1, but Lloyd was unexpectedly stiff in his on-field work and turned in a so-so 40 time of 4.66 seconds. His work in the jumps (35-inch vert, 10-foot-6 broad) and bench press number (25 reps) were both good. But we wonder if his mixed-bag performance warrants a top-15 or 20 selection. Teams that liked him coming into the week won't suddenly bail on Lloyd, but we wonder how many new sets of eyes he opened.) (3-7-22): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-winners-and-losers-from-the-2022-nfl-scouting-combine-174040022.html
2022 draft class features several versatile linebackers that could interest Lions (Lloyd could come in and be a hybrid SAM linebacker with his ability to play off the ball and give teams some pass-rush prowess off the edge. He recorded 111 tackles (66 solo) with 22.0 tackles for loss, 7.0 sacks, four interceptions, six passes defended and two touchdowns for the Utes in 2021. "You know, I think I'm a versatile player," Lloyd said. "I think I can do anything on the field and so, whatever team utilizes me to the best of my skill set is where I'll have the most success." Lloyd said Parson's season last year was definitely inspiring to young linebackers entering the league, and he plans on having a similar impact for whatever team drafts him.) (3-5-22): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2022-draft-class-features-several-versatile-linebackers-that-could-interest-lion
Nakobe Dean or Devin Lloyd? Top linebacker prospects weigh in on draft debate (3-5-22): https://www.nfl.com/news/nakobe-dean-or-devin-lloyd-top-linebacker-prospects-weigh-in-on-draft-debate
Combine Day 3 combine winners, losers (LOSERS - Devin Lloyd
Utah · LB: Lloyd's stellar play the last two seasons has teams excited about his NFL future. However, his workout did not match the outstanding athleticism usually possessed by linebackers taken in the top half of the first round. His 35-inch vertical and 10-foot-6 broad jump were fine, and he had a respectable 25 reps on the bench press. But Lloyd’s 4.66 40 time was not exceptional and neither was his work during on-field drills. His lateral movement and stop-start ability were only average, as were his hands in coverage work. Will the workout cause a significant drop in Lloyd's stock? Unlikely. But with other defenders excelling this week, his performance might make it difficult for teams to justify drafting him with a top-12 selection.) (3-5-22): https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-scouting-combine-winners-and-losers-day-3-georgia-s-jordan-davis-travon
Combine: Wisconsin, Montana State LBs shine on Saturday (Losers - Devin Lloyd, Utah. NFL Network showed a graphic after Lloyd's run -- which clocked in at 4.65 -- that he's similarly sized and ran close to Darius Leonard and Fred Warner. That's good. However, 4.65 was one of the slowest times of the group for the well-liked, projected first-round prospect.) (3-6-22): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-scouting-combine-montana-states-troy-andersen-wisconsins-leo-chenal-shine-in-linebacker-workouts/
2022 NFL combine: Could LBs Nakobe Dean, Devin Lloyd be there for the Detroit Lions at Pick 32? (3-4-22): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/03/2022-nfl-combine-could-lbs-nakobe-dean-devin-lloyd-be-there-for-the-detroit-lions-at-pick-32.html
Top 2022 NFL Draft prospects to watch at the NFL Combine (Devin Lloyd has little to prove, but it never hurts to piece together a formidable Combine.) (3-1-22): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-2022-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-at-the-nfl-combine/
2022 NFL combine: It’s time for the Detroit Lions to finally add a playmaker at linebacker (Devin Lloyd (Utah): There isn’t a linebacker I like more for Detroit than this guy. He’s got speed, he’s got power, he’s got it all -- including production. He racked up 22 tackles for loss in 12 games last season, which was topped by just Will Anderson nationally. At 6-foot-3 and 235 pounds, Lloyd is a three-down linebacker who is built for the modern game. Problem is it might take a trade down/up the board for Detroit to get him in the first round.) (2-28-22): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/02/2022-nfl-combine-its-time-for-the-detroit-lions-to-finally-add-a-playmaker-at-linebacker.html
Combine preview: 12 linebackers the Lions should be watching (Devin Lloyd, Utah, 6-foot-2, 235. Suggested by Erik. Lloyd and Nakobe Dean will battle it out to be the top linebacker off the board, and what happens at the Combine could be a separator for some teams. Lloyd is a very aggressive player and that should come through in his workouts. Look for him to attack each drill with the same level of intensity he brings with him to games. He probably won’t measure/time better than Dean—which won’t that big of a deal, as he isn’t supposed to—but he needs to shine in his fluidity and reaction time.) (2-28-22): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/2/28/22952058/2022-nfl-combine-preview-12-linebackers-the-lions-should-be-watching
Where Devin Lloyd ranks amongst the Nations top linebackers (2-28-22): https://www.si.com/college/utah/football/where-devin-lloyd-ranks-amongst-the-nations-top-linebackers
2022 Combine preview: Linebacker (2. Devin Lloyd, Utah, 6-3, 235: Both Dean and Lloyd could hear their names called in the top 10 picks of this draft. Lloyd has an ideal frame and terrific instincts to match his dynamic physical traits. He recorded 7.0 sacks and four interceptions to go along with 22.0 tackles for loss this past season. He notched 43.0 tackles for loss over the last three years and scored three defensive touchdowns. Talk about production.) (2-24-22): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2022-combine-preview-linebacker-dean-lloyd-walker
Lions 2022 Combine Preview: Inside Linebackers (Devin Lloyd, Utah: The talented linebacker finished his collegiate career with 15.5 sacks, 256 total tackles (150 solo), 65 pressures, 43 tackles for loss, eight passes defensed, five interceptions and three defensive touchdowns. Lloyd was a finalist for the Butkus Award in 2020 and 2021, and was named a first-team All-American last season.) (2-21-22): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/combine-preview-six-inside-linebackers-lions-should-scout
Building a defensive package with the top 2022 NFL Draft prospects: Linebackers (Let me say, up front, that I believe Devin Lloyd to be a good football player — I’m just unsure of where he slots in as a linebacker, presently. The converted safety has a fluidity and athleticism that I love, but his feel for the game at this position is still a beat behind what you’d like to see from a high-profile linebacker prospect, and certainly behind some of the others in this class. When he’s clean and has good vision on his keys, Lloyd can get anywhere he wants on the football field before the offense does, and he produced well as a run fitter and when pursuing receivers after completions. His lateral movement skills and long stride should put him near the top of every athletic test in the pre-draft process, but that doesn’t necessarily mean he's ready to translate to the NFL. Tackle Lifes financial Challenges. Western Southern Financial Group. SPONSOR
Lloyd has been talked about in the class of some other pure athlete types who have been high-level pros early in their career (e.g., Micah Parsons, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah), but I would use Isaiah Simmons as a cautionary tale. It’d be more prudent to put Lloyd behind an odd front, with big bodies between the tackles, and allow him to range over the top of the run scheme — a pro linebacker “starter kit,” if you will. When Utah’s odd fronts or slants didn’t occupy offensive linemen, some of Lloyd’s warts came to the surface. He’s not an unwilling participant in tacking on and dispatching blockers, but he’s still too light in his feet/base to make the most of his long arms, moved off his spot more often than you’d like to see. He’s a lunger/grabber in the open field too, but it causes more low-quality tackles than outright misses. Lloyd will be a productive starter in Year 1, but don’t expect him to blow the door off the hinges.) (2-9-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-defensive-package-linebacker
2022 NFL Draft: Pros and cons for PFF's top five linebackers (1. DEVIN LLOYD, UTAH UTES (PFF Big Board Rank: 11) - PROS: He's built to play in space with his change of direction and balance. His long frame helps him keep linemen at bay, and his stacking and shedding is a plus. The former Ute knows when to take chances. He isn't the guy to be reckless against run fakes. CONS: He is a dive-and-drag-down tackler, which has led to a 12.5% career miss rate. Lloyd has worn down at times during games, leading to low-effort reps. Lloyd isn't quite the elite athlete that usually goes high in the draft.) (2-8-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pros-and-cons-top-5-linebackers-2022-nfl-draft-devin-lloyd-nakobe-dean
2022 Senior Bowl Rumors: Friday (That same director said LSU linebacker Damone Clark was their highest-graded linebacker. Georgia's Nakobe Dean and Utah's Devin Lloyd have received more media hype, but some teams like Clark a lot more than those two and see him as the best linebacker for the 2022 NFL Draft. Other teams could have the order switched, but Clark has helped himself with his good week at the Senior Bowl) (2-4-22): https://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/Senior-Bowl-2022-Rumors-Friday
2022 Senior Bowl Preview | NFL Draft Superlatives (Most Pro Ready: Devin Lloyd) (1-31-22): https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft/2022-senior-bowl-preview-nfl-draft-superlatives
TWENTYMAN: 10 players to watch at the Senior Bowl (1. LB Devin Lloyd, Utah (National): Lloyd had a huge season for the Utes, totaling 111 tackles, 8.0 sacks, 20 tackles for loss, four interceptions (two pick-sixes) and a forced fumble. He's versatile, and has been drawing early comparisons to Tampa Bay's Devin White. He'll likely be the first inside linebacker taken in the draft.)(1-30-22): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-10-players-to-watch-at-the-senior-bowl-lloyd-willis-dotson
2022 NFL draft: 5 linebackers to watch for the Detroit Lions (Devin Llyod, LB, Utah: Devin Llyod is right up there with Dean in recent mock drafts and positional rankings. And for good reason. He would be quite the score later in Round 1 for a linebacker-needy team like the Lions. Llyod is a converted safety who had 22 tackles for loss, four interceptions and two touchdowns in 2021. He’s a playmaker, without question. The 6-foot-3, 236-pound defender notched 15.5 sacks, 43 tackles for loss and five interceptions across the previous three seasons. He’s got the size to handle the work and the athleticism to do everything needed in coverage. Brugler had Llyod at Pick 9 to Denver. Kiper had him at Pick 15 to the Philadelphia Eagles.) (1-29-22): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/01/2022-nfl-draft-5-linebackers-to-watch-for-the-detroit-lions.html
2022 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Linebackers (1. DEVIN LLOYD, UTAH (BIG BOARD RANK: 15): There may be no better all-around linebacker in the class. Lloyd can take on blocks, blitz and cover tight ends at a high level, which is why he earned a 90.2 grade this year with above-average grades in every facet.) (1-6-22): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-2022-nfl-draft-rankings-linebackers-nakobe-dean-devin-lloyd
Utah Football: Devin Lloyd's Rose Bowl Another Milestone in Odds-Defying Career (12-30-21): https://athlonsports.com/college-football/utah-utes-football-devin-lloyds-rose-bowl-another-milestone-odds-defying-career
Top NFL draft prospects in every 2021-22 college football bowl game (LB DEVIN LLOYD, UTAH: Lloyd is firmly in the running to be the first linebacker off the board and looks like a first-round lock. He was a man possessed for the Utes this season en route to a 91.1 overall grade. In coverage, he racked up four picks and three pass breakups.) (12-21-21): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-2022-nfl-draft-prospects-every-college-football-bowl-game
The 2021 PFF College Football All-America Team (LB DEVIN LLOYD, UTAH: Lloyd — a fifth-year senior — carries three years of starting experience with him and has steadily grown into one of college football's best players at the position. The 6-foot-3, 235-pounder's size, length and athleticism all stand out. His improvement in the way of instincts has been the driver of his elite breakout, though. The Utah off-ball linebacker has graded above 78.0 against the run, as a tackler, as a pass-rusher and when in coverage en route to a 90.8 overall defensive mark.) (12-9-21): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2021-pff-all-america-team
PFN’s All-American Football Team Honors for the 2021 college football season (LB: Devin Lloyd) (12-9-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/all-american-football-team-honors-for-the-2021-college-football-season/
PFN’s All-Pac-12 Football Team Honors for the 2021 college football season (Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year: Devin Lloyd, Utah. Pac-12 Linebacker of the Year: Devin Lloyd, Utah. Lloyd was amazing all season long for the Utes. He finished the year with a gaudy stat line of 107 tackles, 7 sacks, 4 interceptions, a pair of pick-sixes, 1 forced fumble, and an even bigger impact on the opposing offensive game plan. Lloyd is as instinctive as they come. He rose not only in the Pac-12 ranks but in NFL Draft circles. Lloyd is now likely to be the first linebacker drafted in the 2022 NFL Draft. First-Team All-Pac-12 Defense - LB: Devin Lloyd, Utah) (12-7-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/all-pac-12-football-team-honors-for-the-2021-college-football-season/
College Football Conference Championships: Team of the Week (LB: Devin Lloyd, Utah - Arguably the best defensive player in the country had yet another dominant performance for the Utes. Devin Lloyd is a special player and had a special outing against Oregon. Lloyd recorded 7 total tackles, including 5 solo attempts and an interception. His pick-six was a perfect example of his ability to read, react, and act as he diagnoses plays faster than most. Lloyd capped his remarkable 2021 season with a performance for the ages.) (12-6-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-conference-championships-team-of-the-week-2021/
College Football Players of the Week from Conference Championship games (LB Devin Lloyd, Utah: Devin Lloyd deserves to be one of the College Football Players of the Week every week. He produced yet another incredible performance this weekend. The Utes’ star linebacker returned an Anthony Brown pass back for a touchdown to blow open the doors for the Pac-12 champions. As we said, Lloyd’s been phenomenal this year, and his stats will make you look twice. With a bowl game to go, he sits at 107 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, 7 sacks, 4 interceptions, and 2 touchdowns.) (12-6-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-players-of-the-week-2021-cfbwk-14/
WATCH: Utah LB Devin Lloyd grabs pick-6 in Pac-12 title game (12-3-21): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2021/12/03/nfl-draft-utah-oregon-highlights-devin-lloyd-touchdown-video/
Underrated prospects to watch on championship weekend (Utah LB Devin Lloyd: Lloyd is the best prospect in this article, potentially destined for the first round. But he needs more pub. He has 100 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, seven sacks, three INTs, and six pass breakups this season. Insane stat-sheet stuffing. And that's all not simply schemed-up production. He makes a sizable impact in every single contest. Plus, he's a fascinating linebacker at 6-3 and 235 pounds. Lloyd plays to every inch of his frame and has a unique, uncanny knack to pick off passes at the line of scrimmage. He glides down the field in coverage, too. ) (12-2-21): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-top-underrated-prospects-to-watch-during-college-footballs-championship-weekend/
College Football Team of the Week: OSU QB C.J. Stroud dazzles vs. Michigan State (LB: Devin Lloyd, Utah: Recording the hit heard ’round the world, Devin Lloyd was once again in top form for Utah. Lloyd gave a case for not just the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year but also for the Bednarik Award after dominating the action against the Ducks. He finished the game with 6 total tackles, including 1 tackle for loss. But that TFL was a thing of beauty. We bet Travis Dye is still sore today after Lloyd thumped him in the backfield. Lloyd possesses all the traits of an elite linebacker. He’s likely to finish his illustrious Utah career with some hardware and a first-round draft selection in April at this rate.) (11-21-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-team-of-the-week-2021-cfbwk-12/
'22 draft: New QB1 among top 25 senior prospects (10) Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah (6-3, 235) (Previous rank: No. 16): Lloyd was suspended for the first half against UCLA on Oct. 30 because of a controversial targeting call against Oregon State a week earlier. He came back to rack up a team-high nine tackles (with five for loss) in the 52-7 rout of Stanford on Nov. 5. He shed blocks, exploded through open gaps and attacked throws to the flat. Lloyd intercepted a pass near the Cardinal's end zone, jumping up to grab the ball before plowing in for a score. He made some big plays last week against Arizona, as well, including an open-field tackle for loss in the red zone. He also provided tight coverage in the end zone, which proved critical in the 38-29 win.) (11-18-21): https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-top-25-senior-bowl-prospects-entering-week-12-of-college-football
2022 NFL Draft Stock Report: Risers and sliders from college football in Week 10 (Risers - Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah: Entering the season, Devin Lloyd was given first-round grades by a number of scouts. Through 10 weeks, he hasn’t disappointed. Lloyd has been impactful and consistently productive in 2021. In Utah’s blowout victory over Stanford, the senior finished with 9 tackles and 5 tackles for loss while posting a sack, an interception, and a PBU. Lloyd is incredibly athletic and versatile. He’s a three-down defender with starting potential in a multitude of schemes at the next level.) (11-8-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-stock-report-risers-and-sliders-from-college-football-in-week-10/
College Football Team of the Week: Purdue QB Aidan O’Connell delivers against Michigan State (LB: Devin Lloyd, Utah - In a dramatic pick-six moment, Devin Lloyd leaped into the passing lane against Stanford and nabbed an interception, needing just 2 yards to score a touchdown on the return. He was terrific throughout the whole game, but his interception was what highlight reels are made of.) (11-7-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-team-of-the-week-2021-cfbwk-10/
Week 10 College Football Players of the Week: Ty Chandler explodes, Devin Lloyd dominates (Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah: Utah needed a big performance on Friday, and they delivered thanks largely to Devin Lloyd. The Utes dominated Stanford this weekend, winning 52-7. Lloyd did a little bit of everything to cement the victory. He finished with a team-high 9 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 1 pass deflection, 1 interception, and returned that interception for a touchdown. I believe that gets him on our list of College Football Defensive Players of the Week.) (11-7-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/week-10-college-football-players-of-the-week/
College Football Week 10: PFF’s Team of the Week and Player Awards (DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: LB DEVIN LLOYD, UTAH UTES - Devin Lloyd was ultra-productive across his 41 snaps against Stanford, posting nine total defensive stops on the night, the most in a single game by a Pac-12 linebacker in the 2021 season. Lloyd recorded three tackles for loss against the run, blew up a pass play five yards behind the line of scrimmage and tallied a sack in the pass rush. Along with that, the Utes linebacker jumped up on one of his eight blitzes to grab the ball out of the air for a fourth-quarter pick-six.) (11-7-21): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-10-team-of-the-week-player-awards-2021
Top 10 Inside Linebackers in the 2022 NFL Draft: Devin Lloyd and Nakobe Dean lead the bunch (1 Devin Lloyd, Utah: The early-season LB1 among our top 2022 NFL Draft inside linebackers, Devin Lloyd has never deviated from that spot. As the 10th overall prospect on the Pro Football Network Top 300 Big Board, he’s the top-rated linebacker by each of our draft analysts. The Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year finished off his Utah career with 111 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, and 4 interceptions. The numbers don’t begin to tell the story of the impact that Lloyd has on the football field. He’s versatile enough to play any LB assignment. He’s athletic enough to play sideline to sideline, in space, and coming downhill. When he explodes downhill, Lloyd plays with a jarring physicality. Against the run, in coverage, and as a pass rusher, Lloyd is impactful as a dominant and disruptive presence in all phases of the game.) (10-27-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-inside-linebackers-in-the-2022-nfl-draft-devin-lloyd-and-nakobe-dean-lead-the-bunch/
2022 NFL Draft All-Prospect Team entering College Football Week 8 (LB: DEVIN LLOYD, UTAH - Like Dean, Lloyd has been excellent in everything you could want a linebacker to do with above-average grades in every phase. He’s been especially productive as a blitzer, where he often beats linemen one-on-one. He’s racked up 16 pressures on 78 pass-rushing snaps this season.) (10-22-21): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-all-prospect-team-college-football-week-8-2021
Detroit Lions 2022 draft watch: 8 linebackers to watch this Saturday (Devin Lloyd, ILB, Utah (Senior) (6-foot-2, 235 pounds, potential MIKE or BUCK in Lions’ scheme): Like most of the other linebackers on today’s watchlist, Lloyd is fast and athletic, but the one thing that separates him from the group is he is able to take on and shed blocks on his way to the ball carrier. That level of strength and toughness gives Lloyd a unique element to his game for a player with sideline-to-sideline range. In addition to his success stopping the run and making open field tackles, Lloyd has the positional range to line up at all over the field, including off-the-ball in the middle of the field and at the line-of-scrimmage—and he’ll blitz from both spots. Lions fans have already seen defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn use his inside linebackers in this fashion this season, and it can be incredibly valuable.) (10-9-21): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/10/9/22716111/detroit-lions-2022-draft-watch-8-linebackers-to-watch
Expect Utah LB Devin Lloyd’s patience to pay off in the 2022 NFL Draft (10-8-21): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-expect-utah-lb-devin-lloyds-patience-to-pay-off-in-2022-nfl-draft
College Football Week 4: Team of the Week honors (LB – Devin Lloyd, Utah: Devin Lloyd was fantastic for the Utes on Saturday afternoon. He patrolled the middle of the field against Washington State’s short-area passing attack, rarely allowing a first down. Lloyd was also particularly stout at limiting the Cougars’ rushing attack, stopping WSU’s attempts at getting to the outside. Lloyd finished the game with 8 total tackles, including a sack, but his presence in the backfield was impressive — both in the run game and on blitzes.) (9-26-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-team-of-the-week-honors-2021-cfbwk-4/
NFL draft: Oregon's Kayvon Thibodeaux leads our 5 prospects to watch this week (Utah LB Devin Lloyd: In a recent conversation with a West Coast scout, we asked: “Who is a prospect we’re sleeping on in your area?” The scout offered up Lloyd — without even thinking twice about it. So we went to the tape. And we really liked what we saw. Then Lloyd went out and had a banner first showing in his 2021 debut. Who cares that it came vs. Weber State? Lloyd looked like a man possessed, collecting a game-high 12 tackles (one for loss), plus a sack, a diving interception off a deflected pass and a forced fumble. The 6-3, 233-pound Lloyd is blessed with 4.5 speed and can do a little of everything — a modern-day, three-down linebacker prospect. He’s facile in zone coverage, can rush the passer on occasion, plays with great intensity and makes great hustle plays from the backside. The BYU offense might not be the juggernaut it was last season with Zach Wilson and Co., but QB Jaran Hall has some ability and the Cougars can run the ball. Expect Lloyd to be at the center of the action in this one, just as he was against BYU in his first career start as a sophomore. He’s vastly improved since then; now Lloyd is one of the best linebackers in the country. Planning on being up late Saturday night? Flip on this game and dial in on No. 0 for the Utes. You won’t be disappointed.) (9-10-21): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-oregons-kayvon-thibodeaux-leads-our-5-prospects-to-watch-this-week-153510356.html
2022 NFL draft: Which prospects impressed in Week 1 of college football? (Utah LB Devin Lloyd: Sure, it was against Weber State, but Lloyd was absolutely everywhere in Utah’s 40-17 victory. He racked up 12 tackles, and showed his versatility and play-making ability with a sack and an interception. Lloyd is a complete prospect who should fit any scheme at the next level, and if he keeps playing at the same level we saw in Week 1, he could enter the first-round conversation.) (9-8-21): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2022-nfl-draft-college-football-week-1-top-performers-zach-charbonnet-jaquan-brisker-devin-lloyd/
Week 2 college football games to watch this weekend (Utah linebacker Devin Lloyd will be one of the Utes tasked with stopping Allgeier in a delicious “meet me in the alley” matchup. Lloyd has a glorious combination of athletic ability and football intelligence. He’s adept at reading the game but also has movement skills to react to any situation effectively.) (9-8-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-games-to-watch-2021-cfbwk-2/
College Football Week 1: Team of the Week honors (LB: Devin Lloyd, Utah: The rightful winner of the 2019 Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year got started on the right foot in 2021. Devin Lloyd snatched an impressive interception against Weber State off a deflected pass while he was impressive in all facets. His sideline-to-sideline ability is second to none in the Pac-12 this season.) (9-5-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-1-team-of-the-week-honors/
Pac-12 2022 NFL Draft prospects and scouting reports (Devin Lloyd, OLB | Grade: 3.82 | Projected Round: 2nd - Linebacker Devin Lloyd was very close to entering the 2021 NFL Draft before opting to return for another season on the college field. He’s an explosive linebacker with terrific size, speed, and athleticism. Lloyd covers a tremendous amount of area on the field, going sideline to sideline and getting depth on pass drops. He’s fantastic in pursuit and shows ability on the blitz. The range of grades given to Lloyd is wide. Some scouts I’ve spoken with believe he’s a first-round prospect, while others have stamped him as a late-rounder. I gave the senior a solid second-round grade, as I like his game and upside.) (9-5-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pac-12-prospects-scouting-reports-2022-nfl-draft/2/
Top 25 Senior Bowl prospects: Which QB is No. 1? (16. Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah (6-3, 235)
Lloyd's an active inside linebacker prospect who will take on blocks, work well in space and attack gaps on blitzes. The 2020 Butkus Award finalist flows to the ball in a hurry once it's in his sights. Lloyd could play on the outside for an NFL team, as well, because of his athleticism and strong tackling in coverage.) (9-2-21): https://www.nfl.com/news/top-25-senior-bowl-prospects-entering-the-2021-college-football-season
Lloyd's an active inside linebacker prospect who will take on blocks, work well in space and attack gaps on blitzes. The 2020 Butkus Award finalist flows to the ball in a hurry once it's in his sights. Lloyd could play on the outside for an NFL team, as well, because of his athleticism and strong tackling in coverage.) (9-2-21): https://www.nfl.com/news/top-25-senior-bowl-prospects-entering-the-2021-college-football-season
2022 NFL Draft: Thibodeaux top prospect in the Pac-12 (There are a few tight ends and an offensive lineman that receive attention but linebacker Devin Lloyd is the piece de resistance for the Utes. Lloyd is similar in size to All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner. One trait that served Warner well is his strong hands to get off blocks and that is visible in Lloyd's game. As a former safety, he shows exceptional ability in coverage.) (9-1-21): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-pac-12-prospect-preview-edge-rushers-kayvon-thibodeaux-drake-jackson-top-prospects-out-west/
Top 10 2022 NFL Draft prospects in the Pac-12 (LB DEVIN LLOYD, UTAH (REDSHIRT SENIOR): Lloyd was everywhere for the Utes as the last remaining impact-maker from their dominant 2019 squad. He posted a ridiculous 27 stops in only five games, meaning he was on pace for over 70 in a full 13-game season. He is one of the most adept linebackers in the country at taking on blocks and has even shown that ability walked up on the line of scrimmage. Now, we’d just like to see more plays from him in coverage, as he’s managed only one pick and two pass breakups in his year and a half as a starter.) (8-7-21): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-10-2022-nfl-draft-prospects-pac-12
Early 2022 NFL Draft linebacker rankings and class overview (4. DEVIN LLOYD, UTAH (REDSHIRT SENIOR): Lloyd was one of the few holdover starters last year from the vaunted 2019 Utes defense, and he took his leadership role to another level in 2020. He registered a hefty 27 defensive stops and earned an 82.2 overall grade in just five games. Lloyd’s biggest selling point may very well be how little projection is needed with his game. We routinely see him taking on and beating blocks at the line of scrimmage. Oh yeah, and there’s also that whole playing in space box Lloyd checks with ease. He may not quite be the ultra-high-end athlete some of the others ahead of him on this list are, but Lloyd is more than athletic enough to be a three-down linebacker at the NFL level.) (7-28-21): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-position-rankings-linebacker
2021 College Football Preseason All-Americans: Texas A&M dominate first-team honors (Linebacker: Devin Lloyd, Utah: A former high school safety, Devin Lloyd has emerged as one of the best linebackers in college football. A tackling machine, he has averaged 6.6 tackles per game over his 22-game career. The leader of the Utah defense isn’t just racking up numbers with easy tackles down the field. He’s a disruptive monster in the backfield, tallying 21 tackles for loss and 8 sacks heading into the 2021 college football season. Lloyd is coming off a year where he was named a finalist for the prestigious Butkus Award. Arguably, his 91 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks should have seen him named Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year in 2019. The Utah linebacker will terrorize offenses in the conference again this year, with the Utes an under-the-radar contender in the Pac-12 and the college football world in general.) (7-10-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2021-college-football-preseason-all-americans/
The PFF Preseason College Football All-Pac-12 Team: USC QB Kedon Slovis, Oregon EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux lead the way (First-Team: Devin Lloyd, Utah - After performing fairly well in his first year as a starter in 2019, with a 69.5 PFF grade, Lloyd noticeably refined his game in 2020. In his five outings over the shortened season, he produced an 82.2 PFF grade that ranked fifth among Power Five off-ball linebackers who played at least 250 snaps. He has the range desired at the position, and Utah can count on him to make plays against the run and as a blitzer. Lloyd ranked sixth among Power Five off-ball linebackers in run-defense grade (86.8) and second in run-stop rate (16.1%). As a pass rusher, he notched an 83.5 grade and came away with nine pressures on 47 rushes. Don’t be surprised if Lloyd’s name gets floated around in the Butkus Award conversation by season's end, as he’s a candidate to take his play to elite status in 2021.) (6-30-21): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-rankings-pff-preseason-all-pac-12-team-2021
Top inside linebackers in the 2022 NFL Draft include Edefuan Ulofoshio, Ventrell Miller (3. Devin Lloyd, Utah: Another inside linebacker who eschewed the opportunity to head to the NFL this year is Utah’s Devin Lloyd. Lloyd enjoyed a brilliant season in 2020 that led to him being a finalist for the prestigious Butkus Award. Yet, he opted to return to chase a Pac-12 Championship for the Utes. Thus, he will have the opportunity to elevate his stock as one of the top inside linebackers in the 2022 NFL Draft class. Lloyd is a tackling machine in Utah’s linebacker corps. During his career, he has averaged 6.6 tackles per game in 22 appearances, totaling 145 tackles. His ability to impact the game in the backfield last year was particularly impressive. His 2020 contributions ensured he heads into next season with over 20 career tackles for loss. There is a lot to like about how Lloyd plays the game. He displays imposing sideline-to-sideline ability and decent short-area explosion to attack the ball. As a former high school safety, he also showcases impressive coverage ability. At 6’3″ and 232 pounds, Lloyd has the frame to be a successful inside linebacker at the NFL level.) (5-24-21): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-top-inside-linebackers-edefuan-ulofoshio-ventrell-miller/
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