Everyone is looking for the next Aldon Smith, and for good reason. There are a plethora of pass rushers in this class, but it is very top heavy relative to the talent gap. Some of these players are also defensive ends, but will be included in this if they translate well to a 3-4 outside linebacker spot.

Here are the top-five senior outside linebackers.

5. Michael Sam, Missouri

Along with Kony Ealy, Michael Sam is one of the reasons for the Missouri Tigers success this season. The nation got their first look at Sam against South Carolina this season, and he did not disappoint. In addition to putting constant pressure on the quarterback, Sam was able to use his quick first step to be a force in the run game as well. The knock on Sam is the fact that he will disappear for a series or two. It does not look like a lack of effort, but the inconsistency will raise a red flag in the NFL. Sam will try to use a bull rush, and if it does not work immediately, he is taken out of the play. If Sam can play at the level he is capable of playing, he will be a very good player. Which is why he is best suited as an outside linebacker who rushes the passer in a 3-4. Look for him to be a situational pass rusher right away but possesses the potential to be a starter in a few seasons. He will need too develop in coverage, but his strength is in the pass rush.

4. Kyle Van Noy, BYU

In terms of putting pressure on the quarterback, Van Noy is one of the best in the country, at times. Like others in this class, Van Noy lacks consistency, but that is almost expected as a young player. Van Noy is explosive off the line of scrimmage, but sometimes comes up field too far, leaving a gap in the run game. He can cover with the best in this year’s class and will be rated higher than others because in a passing league, you need players who can cover as well as being able to rush the passer. If given a lane to the quarterback, he may be the quickest to get there. In the NFL, expect defensive coordinators to use him in stunts to maximize his athleticism. While not at the same level as some others on this list, Van Noy will be a good player in the NFL should he be used correctly.

3. Jeremiah Attaochu, Georgia Tech

Attaochu is a player that will shoot up draft boards before too long once his measurable are released to the public. After seeing him play as a 4-3 defensive end in 2012 and now as an outside rusher in 3-4 this season, he can be a force and an immediate pass rusher in the NFL. The word versatility is thrown around a lot, but Attaochu truly possesses this quality. The All-American can excel in almost any scheme, and is actually very good in coverage relative to other young outside linebackers. He may not be on everyone’s radar now, but come May, he will be a household name.

2. Anthony Barr, UCLA

In terms of pure athleticism, Anthony Barr may be the best outside linebacker in this class, but his ability is still raw, which is rare for a senior. But the fact that he has only been playing defense for a few years shows how high his upside is. Barr possesses an elite ability to get to the quarterback, but sometimes his technique is off. Once he is able to consistently use good technique, he will be a good player for a long time. His upside alone may make him a top five selection, but based on the football talent right now, the next player is the top for me.

1. Khalil Mack, Buffalo

When looking at players and how they translate to the NFL, one looks at weaknesses. Khalil Mack does not have any weakness that I can point out, and that makes him my top outside linebacker. Mack can play five positions in the front seven alone, and would excel at each. I expect Mack to be chosen in the top 15 players, and one team will get a very good player for a long time in the former Buffalo star.