J Lehman LB 6’3 243 Illinois

Lehman had an immediate impact as a freshman, earning All Big 10 honors while posting 56 tackles, three for loss, and 1.5 sacks. As a sophomore, he finished with 67 tackles, with 5.5 of them coming for loss. None of that would have led people to predict the junior season Lehman had however. He blew up as a junior, earning All Big 10 honors while finishing with 152 tackles, 19 for loss, and four sacks. As a senior, Lehman had 124 tackles, 9.5 for loss, 2.5 sacks and an interception.

Very few people play the game with the passion and intensity that Lehman does. He goes hard on every snap, and attacks until the play is over. He plays with fantastic instincts and can read the play and react before the play develops. His intelligence allows him to make plays all over the field.

Lehman may not possess the athletic gifts to make the transition from college star to NFL star. He lacks the footspeed and quickness to change direction and and run plays down from behind.

Lehman has the ideal attitude for a linebacker, and his combination of intensity and intelligence will allow him to play in the NFL. He may lack the athletic ability to be a star, but he could develop into a player you can count on every Sunday.