Perfect 2025 NFL Draft Fits and Scenarios for Former Oklahoma Sooners Linebacker Danny Stutsman

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, one player whose name is generating increasing buzz in scouting circles is former Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Danny Stutsman. A leader on the field and a dynamic presence at linebacker, Stutsman has steadily built a reputation as one of the most talented defensive players in college football. With a combination of size, athleticism, football IQ, and leadership, Stutsman is expected to be a top-tier draft prospect, and many teams in need of a linebacker are now taking a close look at what he can bring to the table. As the draft approaches, the question remains: what are the best fits and scenarios for Stutsman’s future in the NFL?

In this article, we’ll break down Danny Stutsman’s strengths and skills, examine potential landing spots in the 2025 NFL Draft, and explore the best fits for the Oklahoma linebacker, including the teams that would benefit the most from adding him to their roster. From defensive-minded teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps to organizations seeking a playmaker who can make an immediate impact, Stutsman’s future in the NFL is filled with potential.

Danny Stutsman’s Strengths: A Profile of the NFL Prospect

Before diving into the best landing spots for Stutsman, it’s essential to understand what makes him such a sought-after prospect. At 6’4” and 240 pounds, Stutsman possesses the ideal size for a modern-day linebacker, combining strength with the speed necessary to cover sideline-to-sideline. He’s known for his football IQ, consistently diagnosing plays and reacting quickly, as well as his versatility, which allows him to excel in both run defense and pass coverage.

1. Versatility in Coverage and Run Defense

One of Stutsman’s defining characteristics is his ability to do it all. He’s not just a downhill, thumper-style linebacker who only excels in run defense. Stutsman is well-rounded, excelling in coverage, particularly in zone schemes, but also showing the ability to cover running backs, tight ends, and even wide receivers in certain situations. His athleticism allows him to cover a lot of ground, which makes him a natural fit in the modern NFL, where linebackers are often tasked with defending against spread offenses and dynamic passing attacks.

In the run game, Stutsman’s size and strength allow him to play downhill with authority. He’s a physical tackler, often making contact behind the line of scrimmage, and his pursuit skills make him a threat on every play. Whether he’s plugging gaps or taking on blockers to free up teammates, Stutsman is consistently in the right place at the right time.

2. Football IQ and Leadership

Stutsman is known for his intelligence on the field. His ability to read offensive schemes and anticipate the quarterback’s next move makes him a step ahead of many of his peers. At Oklahoma, he frequently served as the leader of the defense, calling out adjustments, communicating with his teammates, and ensuring everyone was on the same page. His leadership extends beyond his play on the field, and his communication skills would serve him well in the NFL, where linebackers are often expected to direct traffic on the defense.

3. Athleticism and Speed

Stutsman’s speed is another element that makes him such an intriguing prospect. He’s quick enough to cover the middle of the field but also fast enough to chase down plays from sideline to sideline. His closing speed on the ball carrier is impressive, and it’s one of the reasons he’s such a dangerous player in space. His 40-yard dash time will be crucial at the combine, but all indications point to Stutsman being a strong tester in terms of both speed and explosiveness.

Best Fits for Danny Stutsman in the 2025 NFL Draft

The key to Danny Stutsman’s success at the NFL level will depend on the system and team he joins. The linebacker position in the NFL has evolved in recent years, with teams requiring more speed, versatility, and pass-coverage skills from their linebackers. Stutsman’s ability to check all these boxes makes him an appealing option for several teams, especially those looking to shore up their defense with a dynamic, high-IQ linebacker who can contribute immediately.

Here, we break down the best fits for Stutsman, focusing on NFL teams that could benefit the most from his skill set.

1. Chicago Bears: A Young, Defensive-Minded Team

The Chicago Bears are in the midst of a rebuilding process, and adding a player like Danny Stutsman could help speed up the development of their defense. With a young core, especially in the linebacker group, Stutsman would add an experienced, high-IQ leader who could anchor the defense for years to come. The Bears have struggled at linebacker in recent seasons, and Stutsman’s ability to cover the pass, stop the run, and make plays all over the field would make him a perfect fit in their scheme.

Chicago runs a 4-3 defense under head coach Matt Eberflus, which could provide Stutsman the opportunity to thrive as an every-down linebacker. His sideline-to-sideline range would make him a strong fit in the Bears’ system, where linebackers are often asked to cover a lot of ground. Additionally, Stutsman’s leadership abilities would be invaluable in a locker room that is still growing and finding its identity. By adding Stutsman, the Bears could create a strong nucleus in their front seven and give their defense a much-needed boost.

2. Buffalo Bills: A Contender Seeking Defensive Balance

The Buffalo Bills have been one of the top teams in the AFC in recent seasons, but their defense has shown vulnerabilities, particularly at linebacker. With veteran linebacker Tremaine Edmunds leaving the team in free agency, the Bills find themselves needing to replace a key player in the middle of their defense. Stutsman could be an ideal replacement for Edmunds, as he offers similar physical tools but also provides the added bonus of elite coverage skills.

In Buffalo’s 4-3 defense, Stutsman’s versatility would allow him to excel in various roles. He would likely start as a middle linebacker but could also be moved around to exploit matchups, whether in coverage or rushing the passer. The Bills are a team that is consistently in contention for a Super Bowl, and adding a playmaker like Stutsman to their linebacker corps would only make their defense more formidable. His football IQ would help him adjust quickly to the Bills’ complex defensive schemes, and his leadership would mesh well with the Bills’ established veterans.

3. Cleveland Browns: A Physical Defense with an Emphasis on Linebackers

The Cleveland Browns have invested heavily in their defense over the past few seasons, and linebacker remains one of the most important areas where they need to improve. With star players like Myles Garrett on the defensive line, the Browns need a linebacker who can take charge in the middle of the field and help stabilize the defense. Stutsman would be an ideal fit for Cleveland’s 4-3 defense, where he could be used as a versatile weapon capable of handling both run defense and coverage responsibilities.

Cleveland’s defense has often been inconsistent in terms of linebacker play, and Stutsman could provide a much-needed upgrade. His ability to cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game would immediately give the Browns an edge over other teams in the AFC North, where high-powered offenses like the Bengals and Ravens regularly exploit defenses. Additionally, Stutsman’s leadership would complement the Browns’ young defensive core, providing a stabilizing presence that would help elevate the play of his teammates.

4. Indianapolis Colts: A Rebuilding Franchise with Defensive Potential

The Indianapolis Colts are currently in the middle of a rebuild, but they have a promising young defense led by players like linebacker Shaquille Leonard. Adding a linebacker like Stutsman would give the Colts a formidable duo in the middle of their defense, with Leonard and Stutsman being capable of making plays all over the field. The Colts run a 4-3 defense, which would allow Stutsman to contribute immediately as an inside linebacker who can excel against both the run and pass.

Stutsman’s ability to read the field and make quick decisions would be an asset to the Colts’ defensive unit, which has already shown potential but could use more playmakers in the linebacker corps. With a defense that already has playmakers and young talent, Stutsman could come in and make an immediate impact. The Colts are building a team with a strong foundation, and adding a high-IQ player like Stutsman could help push them toward becoming a true playoff contender.

5. Dallas Cowboys: A Defense Looking for Leadership and Versatility

The Dallas Cowboys have long been known for their strong defense, and linebacker remains one of the most important positions for them. With an aging unit and some question marks about future depth, adding a linebacker like Stutsman could provide the leadership and versatility that the Cowboys need in the middle of their defense. Stutsman would fit well in Dallas’ 4-3 defense, which is known for its aggressive play and ability to shut down both the run and pass.

Stutsman would be able to learn under the tutelage of veteran linebackers like Leighton Vander Esch, while also providing immediate leadership and athleticism to the unit. His range and ability to cover the middle of the field would complement the Cowboys’ existing pass rush and give them a more well-rounded defense. With a talented roster already in place, adding Stutsman to the linebacker corps could help elevate Dallas’ defense to elite status in the NFC.

Conclusion: Danny Stutsman’s Future in the NFL

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Danny Stutsman is one of the top linebacker prospects, and several NFL teams would benefit from adding him to their roster. His unique combination of size, speed, football IQ, and versatility makes him an ideal fit for teams looking to bolster their defense with an immediate playmaker at linebacker. Whether it’s the Chicago Bears, Buffalo Bills, Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts, or Dallas Cowboys, each of these teams could provide Stutsman with the opportunity to thrive and make an immediate impact on their defense.

No matter where Stutsman lands, it’s clear that he has the potential to be a cornerstone linebacker for whichever team selects him. His leadership, work ethic, and high-level football IQ will make him a valuable asset at the next level. With the NFL evolving and linebackers playing a more dynamic role than ever before, Stutsman’s versatile skill set will help him make the transition seamlessly and potentially become one of the league’s top young linebackers for years to come.