Scouting Journals for Elijah Barnes

True mike linebacker with a coveted combination of size, speed, physicality and effort level at the position. Measured in at 6-foot-1, 230 pounds prior to his senior year. Has plus length with 32.25-inch arms. A strong athlete and one of the faster top linebackers in the 2025 cycle with a 10.96-secon 100 meter mark at 230 pounds. The outstanding size-speed combo shows up on Friday nights. A menace when working downhill. Flows to the ball at high speed and closes quickly. Finishes with physicality, typically tackling with good form. Length aids in his tackling ability. Disruptive as a blitzer and pass rusher. Finishes plays behind the line of scrimmage at a high rate. Looks to diagnose and key well. Motor runs hot. Makes a bunch of second effort plays and runs sideline to sideline. Very productive as a senior, tallying 110 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, 6 sacks and an interception while playing strong competition. Has the makings of a future defensive captain and signal caller. A bit of a straight line mover who can improve his fluidity while dropping into space. The physical traits and play personality point to a projectable skill set in college and ultimately the pro level.