NFL Combine tracker: Browns top 3 linebacker targets to pair with Carson Schwesinger

All the hype at the NFL Combine for Browns fans is centered around wide receivers and the offensive line. While those are definitely the pair of position groups in need of the most help, don't forget about linebacker.

The LB depth gets thin quick for Cleveland. Devin Bush's fantastic 2025 likely prices him out of GM Andrew Berry's free agent price range thanks to salary cap restrictions. Then there's the grim, almost certain, reality that Pro Bowler Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah's playing days are over.

With Rookie DPOY Carson Schwesinger needing a long-term partner, the Browns must strike gold in the draft. Here are a trio of Combine standouts to watch.

More: Ranking the 5 best WR targets for Browns at 2026 NFL Combine

1. Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech (6’1”, 231-lbs)

Another Carson Schwesinger? Yes please! That’s the player comp NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein gave to Rodriguez. The ILB is a high-IQ "mega-producer" who forced 13 fumbles in college. He’s a downhill thumper with the green-dot potential to mirror Schwesinger’s playstyle perfectly.

• Draft Projection: Round 3-4

2. Jake Golday, Cincinnati (6’4”, 239-lbs)

Golday is a physical specimen with high end speed and massive range. He led the Bearcats with 105 tackles last season and offers rare versatility as a hybrid defender who can erase tight ends in the slot.

Berry's hit second round home runs at LB twice before in JOK and Schwesinger...Golday could be next if his draft projection holds true.

• Draft Projection: Round 2-3

3. Jimmy Rolder, Michigan (6’2”, 238-lbs)

A disciplined, sure-fire tackler, Rolder posted a breakout 2025 with 73 tackles. He’s a Big 10 battle-tested linebacker with over 300 special teams snaps. Rolder help retool a struggling ST unit, while also giving the grit needed next to Schwesinger.

Draft Projection: Round 5-6

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