MADISON- Zach Baun was a dominant force for Wisconsin last season, and became yet another Wisconsin outside linebacker to be drafted into the NFL. He finished his senior season with an amazing stat line that had him ranked as one of the top five linebackers in the draft by multiple analysts. This stat line included 76 total tackles, 12.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, two pass deflections, and a touchdown. Baun’s physical and relentless presence will surely be missed and leaves me to wonder who will fill his role opposite of Noah Burks.
Noah Burks played really well in his first season as a starter last year that included 36 total tackles, two sacks, three pass deflections, and an interception that went 68 yards for a touchdown. His experience and quality play will surely keep him in the starting role for this season. Burks will likely be the premier pass rusher for the Badgers next season, and the starting role opposite of him will be decided between three different players.
Izayah Green-May, Jaylan Franklin, and Spencer Lytle will all look to compete for the starting position at outside linebacker. Izayah Green-May has the edge over the other two competing for the position because of his role as a rotational linebacker last season and extended playing time with the injury to Noah Burks during the season. Green-May finished the season with five total tackles and a sack. Another linebacker that received playing time was redshirt sophomore Jaylan Franklin who finished the season with two tackles and a sack. The wildcard at this position group is Spencer Lytle who redshirted last season after coming in as a four-star recruit that was ranked 19th nationally at his position. Lytle could have the potential to be a playmaker this season, but his lack of experience at the college level leaves him as a question mark for what he can do.
It is likely that there is a rotation at outside linebacker this season with so many talented guys that all need experience for the Badgers, but we will have to wait to see who is going to gain the edge at this competitive positional battle.
Who do you think will win the starting job? Do you think rotating outside linebacker is a better solution? Let me know in the comments below.