1. Ernest Hausmann (Nebraska to Michigan)
The skinny: Hausman’s performance as a true freshman at Nebraska seemed to slide under-the-radar of many, but with 54 tackles, two tackles for a loss and one sack, he positioned himself as one of the top young defensive players in the nation. So, when he entered the portal, the Wolverines pounced at the opportunity. Adding Hausmann to an already talented defensive unit better positions Michigan in the Big Ten and nationally.
2. Omar Speights (Oregon State to LSU)
The skinny: While Hausmann was under-appreciated after one season, the same could be said about Speights after four seasons at Oregon State. He totaled 304 tackles, 25 tackles for a loss and three sacks during his time with the Beavers, and now will try to replicate his impressive production in the SEC. Expect him to do just that, as the Tigers look to re-load their linebacking corps.
3. Monty Montgomery (Louisville to Ole Miss)
The skinny: Coming off his best collegiate season with 70 tackles, 11 tackles for a loss six tackles for a loss, four forced fumbles and two interceptions, Montgomery will take his playmaking abilities to the SEC this fall. While not the largest linebacker in stature, he should fit in perfectly in new defensive coordinator Pete Goldings attacking style.
4. Mason Cobb (Oklahoma State to USC)
The skinny: As USC continues to be very aggressive in the portal, the Trojans have focused their priorities on the defensive side of the ball during this cycle after the unit struggled in 2022. Adding Cobb, who burst onto the collegiate scene last season with 96 tackles, 13 tackles for a loss, two sacks and one interception, should go a long way in improving the entire unit.
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5. Keenan Pili (BYU to Tennessee)
The skinny: With a great deal of transition happening at the linebacker position, the Vols were looking for a veteran to stabilize the unit. They accomplished this by adding Pili, who arrives in Knoxville after totaling 191 tackles, 13.5 tackles for a loss and 3.5 sacks at BYU. Expect him to be an immediate starter, while the younger options figure out their roles this fall.
