Browns Draft Justin Jefferson: Linebacker Depth & Upside

0:00It's April 25th. Welcome to NFL News Today, powered by AI. I'm Corey with the story. Cleveland Browns just scooped up linebacker Justin Jefferson from Alabama with the 149th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, dude 6-B tall, 223 pounds, and is their second selection on day 3 second of 3 fifth round picks. Plus, back-to-back Crimson Tide players. Jefferson's a one-year starter who transferred from junior college and grinded it through SEC speed under Nick Sabin. He stepped up big in the micro-old last season, handling injuries to key guys, and showing more comfort as the year went on. Fans are buzzing about the fit, especially with Jeremiah Ousu, Kora Moa's future up in the air, and no backup like Muhammad Diabade brought back. Cleveland's linebacker room needed depth behind Carson Schwestinger and Quincy Williams, and this adds that young energy. Scouts love his compact build and pursuit speed. He's twitchy in space with special team snap, though he still sharpens those reads in block attacks

1:03at the pro level. High upside if the mental game clicks. Browns keep stacking athletic pieces for the future, turning day 3 into real value.