James Laurinitis LB 6’3 244 Ohio St. Jr.

Laurinitis did not make much of an impact as a freshman, learning behind AJ Hawk in the 2005 season. He had huge shoes to fill replacing Hawk a year later, but he somehow managed to step in and keep the same level of play from the middle linebacker spot for the Buckeyes. He was on various All American lists and won the Nagurski award after posting 115 tackles, 8.5 for loss, four sacks, and five interceptions on the year. Laurinitis was a star again as a junior, this time finishing with 103 tackles, 8.5 for loss, five sacks, and two interceptions.

Laurinitis is an excellent middle linebacker. He is a complete player, capable of making an impact in every facet of the game. He has excellent instincts and makes plays all over the field. He quickly diagnoses the action and flows to the football effortlessly to make the play. He can run sideline to sideline to run plays down on the perimeter, but quickly turns it upfield when a back cuts back and meets them in the hole. Laurinitis has also shown the ability to blitz and make plays as a pass rusher. What separates him from most middle linebackers are his instincts and awareness in coverage. He can drop back and read the quarterback and come up and make plays on the football.

With his all around ability, it is difficult to knock Laurinitis’ game. He may not be the true physical standout to make teams drool, but he obviously is an impact performer on the field. He could stand to improve at getting off blocks a little better, but these flaws are nitpicking.

Laurinitis is a true linebacker and will be a leader for an outstanding defense in the NFL. His all around ability will allow his team to attack from different angles on every play. If he declares this season, he will be one of the first defenders selected, almost certainly the first linebacker taken.