2017 NFL Draft: Alabama Reuben Foster Scouting Report

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) celebrates after a play during the second quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) celebrates after a play during the second quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Alabama’s Reuben Foster is a highly experienced linebacker prospect who is in good position to come off the board early in the 2017 NFL Draft.

Reuben Foster features a good combination of athleticism and a strong build. This makes him a versatile defender in that he can range sideline to sideline and take on blocks at the line of scrimmage. Foster is a major different maker who is always around the football.

This is a smart football player who makes quick reads and helps get his teammates in proper position. It’s obviously he understands football concepts and spends time studying film during the week.

Foster attacks the run with authority where he shows the ability to shoot the gap, take on blocks and purse to the edge. He’s a thumper as a tackler who routinely delivers big hits. This is a true inside linebacker prospect who has that ideal size paired with quickness.

His ability to hold up in coverage means that he can stay on the field in passing situations.

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Foster shows good awareness and feel defending the pass. He plays with balance, gets proper depth and keeps his head on a swivel.

The one thing to consider is that Alabama’s defense is routinely loaded with elite talent which makes things easier on the unit as a whole. Someone like Foster isn’t asked to be the lone playmaker and benefits from the plays made by those around him.

With that being said, Foster is an elite talent who should easily transition to the NFL. He’s a more athletic version of former teammate Reggie Ragland who was selected in the 2nd round of the 2016 NFL Draft.

This is my top rated traditional linebacker prospect and someone who is capable of stepping in and starting from day one.

Current Draft Stock: 1st Round