IDP Rankings

Franklin blends the attributes that fantasy managers should be seeking in top IDP options. He's the definition of an every-down player, as he's topped 1,000 defensive snaps in three consecutive seasons, peaking at 1,112 in 2024. That allows him to tally ridiculous tackle totals, and he manages to add on some playmaking ability that other players at middle linebacker often lack. Franklin isn't great in coverage, but the Colts do rely on him in the role, allowing him to log six pass breakups in each of the last three seasons. Add in some selective usage as a pass rusher, and Franklin is a strong bet to remain one of the most valuable linebackers in IDP formats.

There wasn't much doubt at the time, but Smith's performance in 2024 reaffirmed the Ravens' decision to prioritize keeping him in the purple and black while letting Patrick Queen walk to a division rival. Smith operated without an effective partner in the middle of Baltimore's linebacker corps after Queen's departure, as Trenton Simpson fell flat attempting to step into the role. That in turn forced Malik Harrison into a role he wasn't necessarily suited for. Despite that challenge, Smith was able to tally at least 150 tackles in his fourth consecutive season and his durability and importance to his team make him one of the safest IDP selections on the board.

Tremaine Edmunds was supposed to be the impact add to the Bears' linebacker corps in 2023, but Edwards has proven to be the more reliable producer of the duo. That track record earned him a two-year extension from Chicago this offseason under the team's new coaching staff, a positive sign for his role and production. There was a notable dip in Edwards' impactful production last season, with his work in coverage particularly poor relative to expectations. However, the entire team seemingly lost its way in 2024, and Edwards remains in his prime years, so some bounceback should be expected.

Unable to agree on an extension, the Rams dealt Jones to the Titans a couple weeks before last season. Jones didn't stay long in Tennessee before the Seahawks came calling Week 8. With Seattle, Jones remade a defense that had been particularly vulnerable to the run up the middle. He signed a three-year, $33 million contract to remain with Seattle this offseason and will pair with second-year linebacker Tyrice Knight as one of the most productive duos in the league. Jones' value is based nearly entirely on his ability to stop the run and stay on the field, so don't expect much additional production beyond tackles. He's also coming off knee surgery but is expected to be ready for training camp.

Brooks quietly seemed to be at a crossroads in his career heading into the 2024 season. Despite consistent tackling production, the Seahawks let him walk, in part because he at times struggled in coverage throughout his rookie contract. He ended up signing with Miami and showcased significant skills growth in nearly every facet last season, delivering career-high marks in quarterback hits (six) and total pressures (20) while also improving in coverage. That should solidify his role in 2025, setting him up to easily top 100 tackles for the fifth consecutive season.