Top 5 Players in 2007 NFL Draft by Position - Outside Linebackers

For many NFL teams, these are the guys who go from sideline to sideline. They can provide pressure on the quarterback from many different angles but they are also responsible for covering tight ends and running backs on certain plays. These are your outside linebackers. They can be the defensive keys for many teams; the last line of defense before the secondary. OLBs are expected to play both sides of the line of scrimmage. If you are needed to rush the passer, then you should be able to do so. Same goes if you need to cover a receiver out of the backfield or a tight end releasing from the line. You should be athletic, quick, and strong enough to use your force against those receivers, but agile enough to also get around bigger offensive linemen.

The draft is not stocked full of these prospects, although you really do not need to go out and draft one so early unless they are truly special. This year's top OLBs are from some of the premier defensive schools in the nation, known for churning out defensive NFL talents. Whether your name is Timmons, or Bradley, or maybe Posluszny... the NFL is waiting for you come April 27. Here's a look at the top players at the positions.