Jacob Curry

Physical Profile

Listed around 6-foot-1 and 208 pounds, Curry possesses a modern linebacker's frame that is built for speed and agility rather than sheer size. While he will need to add mass in a college strength program, his current build allows him to play with the sideline-to-sideline range necessary for today's spread-heavy offenses. Reports of a sub-4.5 40-yard dash and a 37-inch vertical speak to his explosive, quick-twitch athleticism which is evident on film.

Play Style

On film, Curry is a high-motor, aggressive defender who plays with a sense of urgency. He is a 'see-ball, get-ball' player who trusts his athletic ability to get him to the action. He is comfortable operating in space, demonstrating the fluid hips and change-of-direction skills of a defensive back. As a blitzer, he is aggressive and effective, using his quickness to create pressure.

Strengths

• **Positional Versatility**: Curry showcases the ability to play multiple roles, from a traditional off-ball linebacker to a safety or a hybrid 'cheetah' position. This flexibility allows him to be a three-down player who can match up against various offensive looks, whether it's blitzing the quarterback, covering tight ends, or defending the run.
• **Elite Production & Instincts**: His junior season stats are a clear indicator of his on-field impact, having tallied 101 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and 8 sacks. He was named the St. Augustine Record's All-County Defensive Player of the Year, underscoring his ability to diagnose plays and consistently be around the football.
• **Sideline-to-Sideline Speed**: Curry plays with exceptional range and closing speed, allowing him to chase down plays across the field. This athleticism makes him a natural fit for defending the perimeter and pursuing ball carriers in space, a critical trait for linebackers in the current era of college football.

Areas to Improve

• **Adding Bulk and Strength**: To consistently handle the physical demands of playing linebacker in the Big 12, Curry will need to add significant lean mass and functional strength to his frame. This will be crucial for taking on and shedding blocks from Power Five offensive linemen and holding his ground in the run game.
• **Refining Positional Technique**: While his versatility is a major strength, his long-term development will depend on honing the specific techniques of his primary college position. Whether he settles as a WILL linebacker or a hybrid space player, dedicated work on position-specific footwork, hand usage, and coverage nuances will be essential.

College Projection

Curry projects as a multi-year starter at the Power Five level with the potential for an early impact, particularly on special teams, due to his speed and tackling ability. His ideal role is as a weak-side or 'WILL' linebacker in a four-man front, where he can be protected by larger defensive linemen and use his speed to flow to the football. His skill set makes him a perfect candidate for a hybrid linebacker/safety role, similar to Oklahoma's 'Cheetah' position, which values versatility and athleticism.

NFL Outlook

Given his status as a composite four-star prospect committed to a premier program known for defensive development, Curry possesses clear NFL upside. If he successfully adds the required size and strength while maintaining his athleticism and continues his high level of production, he projects as a potential mid-to-late round NFL Draft pick who could excel as a modern, cover-and-run linebacker.

Best Fit

A defensive scheme that values speed and versatility at the linebacker position is the best fit for Curry. A system that allows its linebackers to play in space, blitz frequently, and utilizes multiple defensive fronts to create favorable matchups would maximize his skill set. His commitment to Oklahoma under Brent Venables, a defensive-minded head coach, is an excellent match, as their scheme often features hybrid defenders in key roles.