IDP Rankings

Franklin blends together 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 straight seasons - peaking at 1,112 in 2024. That allows him to tally ridiculous tackle totals, though 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 moving forward. 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.

Jones was dealt twice during the 2024 season, an unusual circumstance for a player that had topped 100 tackles in each of the last two campaigns. He finally got some stability heading into 2025, as he signed a three-year, $33 million contract to remain with Seattle for the long term. He'll now be set to 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. It will also be worth monitoring his recovery from knee surgery, though it's expected that he'll be ready for the regular season.

Despite getting a significant contract from Miami in free agency, Brooks quietly seemed to be at a crossroads in his career heading into the 2024 season. He displayed inconsistency as a tackler and struggled in coverage throughout his rookie contract in Seattle, something that was less likely to be tolerated during his second contract. However, he showcased significant skills growth in nearly every facet during his first season in Miami, 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 straight season.