Alabama Linebacker Justin Jefferson Joins the Cleveland Browns in the Fifth Round of the NFL Draft

The Cleveland Browns double-dip in Tuscaloosa with their two most recent draft picks. After taking Parker Brailsford with the 146th pick in the NFL draft, the Browns traded back up to take former Alabama linebacker Justin Jefferson with the ninth pick in the fifth round, No. 149 overall, in the 2026 NFL draft.

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Jefferson, a 6-foot, 223-pound linebacker, spent three seasons in Tuscaloosa after transferring to Alabama from the Juco ranks, and was a strong contributor for the Crimson Tide on special teams and on defense for defensive coordinator Kane Wommack. In 2025, Jefferson started all 15 games for Alabama, making 79 total tackles while contributing five pass breakups, three sacks, one forced fumble, and an interception. Jefferson also had 6.5 tackles for loss for the Crimson Tide last season.

Jefferson joins a Browns squad that needs help defensively. He plays above his listed size, and his mobility can help when trying to spy mobile quarterbacks and tight ends in pass coverage. While he may not contribute early, Jefferson can work his way on the field in situational roles with the Browns.

Alabama Players Drafted in the 2026 NFL Draft

Kadyn Proctor, OL. Miami Dolphins (Round 1, Pick 12)
Ty Simpson, QB. Los Angeles Rams (Round 1, Pick 13)
Germie Bernard, WR. Pittsburgh Steelers (Round 2, Pick 47)
Lt Overton, Edge. Dallas Cowboys (Round 4, Pick 137)
Parker Brailsford, C. Cleveland Browns (Round 5, Pick 146)
Justin Jefferson, LB. Cleveland Browns (Round 5, Pick 149)

Wyatt Fulton is the Tide 100.9 DME and Brand Manager, primarily covering Alabama Crimson Tide football and men's basketball. For more Crimson Tide coverage, follow Wyatt on X (Formerly known as Twitter) at @FultonW_.