Jalen McLeod, LB, Auburn
Size:
Height: 6015
Weight: 241
Arm: 32 ¼”
Hand: 9 ¾”
Accomplishments:
Senior Bowl (2025)
“Jalen McLeod is a versatile front-seven defender who has shown to be productive as both a stand-up inside linebacker and a pass rusher from the edge position.”
Strengths:
Position/alignment-versatile
Tackling power/strength
Sack production
Drop in zone coverage
Concerns:
Overall athleticism
Tackling in space
Identifying a true role within a defense
Film Analysis:
Jalen McLeod is a fifth-year senior who began his collegiate career at Appalachian State before transferring to Auburn. Throughout his career, McLeod has proven to be a versatile front-seven defender. In making the leap to SEC competition, he demonstrated natural physical tools that allowed him to be an impactful player across multiple positions on the front seven. McLeod capped off his collegiate career with his most productive season, recording career highs in tackles, sacks, and forced fumbles. His final stat line includes 57 tackles, eight sacks, and two forced fumbles.
McLeod’s production in all facets of the game stems from his ability to play as a stack backer in certain situations, while also having the versatility to move to the edge rusher position. This unique combination makes him a valuable three-down defender for an NFL front seven.
When evaluated as a stack backer, McLeod displays above-average skills in reading blocking schemes and taking his read steps downhill toward the line of scrimmage. He is a scrappy, high-collision player who willingly takes on blocks from offensive linemen, working to shed them and make tackles on ball-carriers. McLeod is a physical tackler who uses his full body weight to generate power when striking ball-carriers. He has a well-filled-out frame, appearing closer to 250 pounds, and possesses the build of a true middle linebacker capable of downhill, physical play. Additionally, McLeod plays with great hustle and motor, making him a strong pursuit player who consistently chases down ball-carriers.
As a run defender on the edge, McLeod naturally exhibits good leverage, allowing him to get under the pads of offensive linemen and control reps while effectively setting the edge. His best performances along the defensive line come on twists and stunts, where his quickness and athleticism, combined with being slightly undersized, allow him to shoot gaps and penetrate the backfield.
What sets McLeod apart as a prospect is his ability to contribute as a pass rusher. This versatility gives defensive coordinators the flexibility to use him in various ways to pressure the quarterback. McLeod possesses a quick first step, enabling him to get upfield and disrupt plays. He can play in a multiple-front defense, even aligning as a stand-up rusher over the center to create interior pressure. McLeod’s effectiveness as a pass rusher could prompt NFL teams to consider a position change if he continues to excel in this area at the professional level.
The primary concern with McLeod’s game lies in his overall athleticism and tackling in open space. While he is a high-effort, instinctual player who often gets to ball carriers, he can struggle to secure tackles in the open field. McLeod has a tendency to duck his head and lunge at ball carriers, making it easier for them to evade his tackles. To become a more effective tackler in space, McLeod needs to improve his tackling angles and approach.
Overall, McLeod is an intriguing prospect due to his versatility within the front seven. In the right system and situation, he has the potential to become an impactful defender at the next level.
Prospect Projection: Day 2 — Adequate Starter
Written By: Keith Sanchez
Exposures: California (2024), Oklahoma (2024), Georgia (2024), Alabama (2024)
