In a league increasingly defined by turnovers and efficiency, linebackers who can process quickly, finish tackles, and take the football away carry premium value. That's precisely what the Washington Commanders should be looking for this offseason, especially with Bobby Wagner likely to retire or take his chances elsewhere in free agency. And that might just come at some stage during the 2026 NFL Draft.
I found that Murdock wins with instincts, angles, and physicality. He reads plays quickly, stays square, and finishes tackles. One thing I noticed is he doesn't overrun the ball or guess his way into trouble, he plays within the structure of the defense and does his job snap after snap. What really stood out to me is how he creates turnovers. Murdock finished his college career as the all-time FBS leader in forced fumbles, and that's not just luck.
Originally selected as a safety, Mapu had a productive four seasons at Sacramento State, playing nearly 1,800 snaps. The majority of his snaps during his senior year came as a slot cornerback, despite his 6-foot-3, 230-pound build. He played only 204 snaps as a rookie, splitting time between playing in the box and as a deep man. The same was the case in his sophomore season, though in a larger role.
Fred Warner is in the eye of the 49ers' defensive hurricane. New teammates are swirling around him. He is not calm, however. He is All-Pro Fred, and that means he is hollering, hustling, and huddling up with intensity. He's still the one out there chirping and yelling and screaming and getting everybody pumped up, defensive coordinator Robert Saleh said. So, he hasn't changed in that regard. The game hasn't jaded him, if that makes sense.
He [Jordan Magee] is a guy that everyone is watching. Seeing his growth, understanding the defense. I think the biggest step for a younger guy, when you first come into the league, you don't know what to expect... Then you get a full season, and you come in and just get to focus on being the best linebacker.
