Jaishawn Barham

NFL Draft Profile: Jaishawn Barham

Position: LB / Hybrid EDGE | School: Michigan | Class: Senior

Height: 6'3" | Weight: 248 lbs | Archetype: Hybrid (Blitz Specialist / Off-Ball LB)

College Career Summary

Jaishawn Barham enters the 2026 NFL Draft as one of the most physically imposing defensive prospects in the country. After a stellar start at Maryland, where he earned Freshman All-American honors, Barham transferred to Michigan in 2024 to refine his game in a pro-style system. His 2025 season was a study in versatility; mid-season, Michigan transitioned him from a traditional off-ball MIKE linebacker to a "full-time" edge rusher to maximize his Blitzing and Acceleration. The move was a masterstroke, as Barham’s 6'3", 248 lb frame proved too twitchy for Big Ten tackles to handle. Despite battling an upper-body injury in November, he finished 2025 as an All-Big Ten selection, solidifying his status as a "positionless" defensive weapon similar to the way NFL teams utilize versatile hybrids.

Highlight Career Stats:

• Games Played: 37

• Total Tackles: 193 (32 in 2025)

• Tackles For Loss (TFL): 23.5 (10.0 in 2025)

• Sacks: 15.0 (4.0 in 2025)

• Pass Breakups: 7 (3 in 2025)

• Interceptions: 1 (off J.J. McCarthy in 2023)

2025 Season Game-by-Game Grades

Opponent	Stats	Grade	Key Performance Note
vs. New Mexico	3 Tkl	B	Played downhill; solid gap integrity.
@ Oklahoma	4 Tkl, 0.5 TFL	B+	Displayed elite Lateral Agility against a high-tempo offense.
vs. C. Michigan	3 Tkl, 2.0 Sk	A+	Elite Performance. Pure dominance as a stand-up rusher.
@ Nebraska	4 Tkl, 1.0 Sk	A	Star impact; Matt Rhule called him a "Top 10 pick" post-game.
vs. Wisconsin	2 Tkl, 0.5 TFL	B	Reliable Run Stopper against heavy personnel.
@ USC	2 Tkl, 1.0 TFL	B-	Struggled slightly in space against USC's speed.
vs. Washington	3 Tkl, 1.0 TFL	B+	High Motor was evident; chased down plays from behind.
@ Michigan State	3 Tkl	B	Solid leadership; directed the front seven in a rivalry game.
vs. Purdue	0 Stats	D	Left early in the 1st Qtr with an upper-body injury.
@ Northwestern	2 Tkl, 2 PBU	B+	Returned from injury; displayed improved Coverage awareness.
@ Maryland	5 Tkl, 1.0 Sk	A	Revenge game; 2.0 TFLs and 1.0 sack against his former team.
vs. Ohio State	1 Tkl	C-	Neutralized by OSU’s O-line; lacked the usual "Havoc" impact.

Scouting Report

Strengths

• Elite Power Step: Barham possesses "heavy hands." When he initiates contact, he has the strength to shock offensive linemen and shed blocks instantly.

• First-Step Explosion: As a Blitz Specialist, his first step is devastating. He clears the arc with ease and can convert speed-to-power effortlessly.

• Positional Versatility: He is truly scheme-proof. He can play as a traditional MIKE, a 3-4 SAM, or a situational 4-3 defensive end.

• Tackling Power: He doesn't just tackle ball carriers; he stops their momentum. His Tackling is built on explosive force rather than just "wrapping up."

Weaknesses

• Coverage Polish: While athletic, he can look "lost" in complex man-coverage assignments. He is best when he can keep his eyes on the QB rather than mirroring a twitchy slot receiver.

• Health/Durability: His 2025 season was interrupted by an upper-body injury. GMs will look closely at his Injury History to ensure he can handle a 17-game pro season at 248 lbs.

• Diagnostic Speed: Early in the 2025 season, he occasionally over-pursued, biting on play-action or misdirection. His Play Recognition is high, but his aggression can be used against him.

Scheme Fit: Ideal 3-4 Outside Linebacker or a Hybrid "Joker" in a multiple-front defense (Ravens/Lions style).

NFL Comparison: Zack Baun / Foyesade Oluokun

Scout’s Final Word & Projection

Intangibles: 18/20 | Physical Tools: 19/20 | Attributes: 17/20 | Athleticism: 18/20 | IQ: 16/20

Final Grade: 88/100

Jaishawn Barham is a "Freak" athlete whose best football is still ahead of him. His mid-season transition to the edge at Michigan unlocked a level of disruption that few linebackers in this class can match. While he still needs to refine his hand-fighting Technique and show more consistency in man Coverage, his raw tools are undeniable. He is a "bad intentions" defender who changes the geometry of the field for opposing quarterbacks.

Draft Projection: 1st - 2nd Round (Top 40 Overall)