2026 NFL Prospect Profile: Alabama’s Linebacker Deontae Lawson

Deontae Lawson was a five-star recruit out of high school, playing both offense and defense. But when he arrived in Alabama, Lawson committed to playing defense only, his natural position. He’s developed into a pro-size 6’2”, 235lb linebacker that can beat you physically or mentally.

Lawson played sparingly as a sophomore behind a talent-rich Crimson Tide defense full of future NFL talent. He did redshirt in 2021, his freshman year, but contributed in a reserve role effectively during his sophomore campaign, logging 51 tackles for the Tide. 

In 2023, he had a chance to seize the starting middle linebacker position and really showed well. He made 67 tackles during his junior campaign and was nominated for the prestigious Butkus award for college football’s best middle linebacker. In 2024, he was named team captain and surpassed his tackle numbers from his redshirt junior year. He also had two sacks, one pick and forced a fumble. 

Strengths

Lawson is perhaps Alabama’s smartest defensive player. He calls all the defensive signals and understands the opponent’s schemes well. But Lawson doesn’t subsist on a high football IQ alone. Physically, he plays just as well in the box as he does make plays in the open field or outside the numbers. He’s a tackling machine, rarely missing once he squares up on a target. 

In pass defense, Lawson can cover backs and tight ends, so he won’t need to be subbed out at the next level in certain packages. He takes great angles, can change direction without losing momentum, and has a non-stop motor. He’s a hard-hitting middle linebacker who may one day be a defensive captain at the next level.

Weaknesses

Unfortunately, Lawson has been injury-prone during his NCAA career. Scouts and medical staff will want to check out his previous injury history, including an ACL tear, to make sure he’s fit for the pros during the evaluation process.

Secondly, Lawson needs to learn to shed blocks better to get away from blocks and get to the runner more consistently. This will come with developing better technique and hitting the weight room to add the strength necessary to excel at the next level. 

Conclusion 

Lawson is a leader. With his versatility, high football IQ, and freakish athleticism, he will likely be ranked as the 2026 prospect class’s best middle linebacker. He plays with intelligence and instincts and can get to the ball in a hurry. If he can overcome some injury concerns and shed blocks better, he will be the first MLB off the board next April. Draft Nation expects to see him chosen in the late first round or within the top ten picks of day two.