4 Linebackers Going Way Too High in Drafts (Busts)

Aug 12, 2019

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It's about that time of year where drafts are in high gear. We've talked about the linebackers poised for a breakout and the rookies to target. We've also dissected who will lead their respective teams in tackle share. Now, we're going to look at linebackers and where they are being drafted. I am here to stop you from taking these guys as they are being overdrafted. Now if you're playing in some crazy scoring where sacks are 20 pts, or you're getting points for QB hits, things will change. For these purposes, I'm looking at a balanced scoring system:

1.75pts solo tackle
0.5pts assisted tackle
4pts sack

In looking at MFL ADP Data, these linebackers are being overdrafted this season.

Joe Schobert, Browns - LB18

Joe Schobert is being drafted in most instances as the 18th linebacker off the board, so you are depending on him as your LB2. I have a hard time swallowing that, as he's being pushed for MIKE snaps by rookie Sione Takitaki. Schobert missed Week 1 of the preseason for personal reasons, which allowed Takitaki to grab a start and call the plays. He looked the part. He had control of the plays and stuck his nose where it wasn't wanted. Fellow rookie, Mack Wilson, announced his presence with authority, as well.

Schobert has been a solid IDP over the last few seasons, producing a 12.5% tackle rate which has resulted in 245 tackles. However, Browns brass and coaches have stated they want better tackling and to limit misses, something Schobert has struggled with. Over the last two seasons, Schobert has missed a tackle in every 6.8 attempts. Here's what I tweeted about Schobert Thursday night:

#FFIDP If I’m Joe Schobert, I’m playing through broken bones, torn ligaments...if he misses anytime, I don’t think Takitaki is relinquishing the job if/once he gets it...

— Mike Woellert (@Mike_Woellert) August 9, 2019