This was such an easy choice probably because Noah Sewell was already named an FWAA Freshman All-American in 2020. The former five-star linebacker broke out in a big way last year.
Playing in just seven games without much of an offseason to adjust to the collegiate level, the younger brother of Penei Sewell won a starting job to begin the season and didn’t disappoint. He finished the year with 48 total tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, and a forced fumble. He was incredibly productive and he was one of the best linebackers in the country as a freshman.
With one season under his belt and the middle linebacker position locked up, he’s going to be the leader of the defense heading into the season and should be a lock to be an All-American.
Sewell is going to have plenty of help on defense this season as Oregon might just run out the Pac-12’s best unit weekly with Tim DeRuyter running the show. Depth is evident and the starters are as good as any in the conference. Alongside Sewell will be Justin Flowe, Mase Funa, and Adrian Jackson. Not bad company to take the pressure off.
The second-year middle linebacker will follow up his freshman All-American season with an even better, more productive campaign.