Eric Gentry is one of the most physically unique linebacker prospects in the 2026 class, bringing rare height and length to the position at 6'6"+ with 35-inch arms and verified 4.56 speed. A former Freshman All-American at Arizona State before transferring to USC, Gentry’s game is defined by range, wingspan disruption, and flashes of playmaking in space rather than traditional box linebacker power.

At his best, Gentry uses his length to clutter throwing lanes, disengage from blocks, and chase from the backside. He has natural stride length that shows up in pursuit and enough fluidity to function in zone coverage. His 2022 season at USC highlighted his impact potential with 71 tackles, multiple forced fumbles, and pass-rush production from the second level. When clean, he closes quickly and can affect quarterbacks as a blitzer thanks to his long frame and timing.

The primary concern is play strength and anchor. At just over 220 pounds, Gentry struggles holding ground against interior linemen and can be engulfed when blockers get into his chest. He prefers to slip and run rather than stack and shed, which limits his reliability inside the tackle box. His injury-shortened 2024 season also introduces durability considerations. While he has traits to function as a MIKE in theory, his frame and play style project more naturally to a WILL role where he can maximize range and avoid consistent downhill collisions.

Overall, Gentry profiles as a developmental, scheme-dependent linebacker with intriguing length-speed tools. In a system that values range, zone awareness, and sub-package flexibility, he offers upside as a situational defender and special teams contributor. His ceiling depends heavily on whether he can add functional mass and improve block deconstruction at the next level.