Summary

Drafted: Round 3, 69th overall (2024) by the Los Angeles Chargers.
College: Michigan Wolverines.
Key college numbers & notes: three-year contributor at Michigan with rangy linebacker tape (sideline-to-sideline range, coverage reps vs TEs/RBs) and reliable tackling production; viewed as a top coverage-capable off-ball linebacker in the 2024 class.
Accolades & character: valued for his athletic profile, physical tackling, and competitive demeanor; teams praise his instincts, effort, and coachable temperament. Los Angeles Chargers

Strengths

• Range & athleticism — Shows sideline-to-sideline speed and the ability to carry tight ends and running backs in space. Bleacher Report

• Coverage ability for size — Effective in man and zone coverage; flips his hips well and plays with good awareness in underneath and seamless drops. NFL Draft Buzz

• Reliable tackler / physicality — Wraps up and finishes; plays downhill in run support and isn't afraid to take on blocks. Hogs Haven

• Instincts & processing — Strong pre-snap recognition, fits to run plays quickly, and picks up blitzes/stunts well. Field Gulls

• Versatility — Projects as a three-down linebacker who can play in different fronts and subpackages (will blitz, drop, or play the hook/curl). NFL Draft Buzz

Weaknesses

• Change-of-direction / open-field angles — Tape shows occasional hesitation or late pops on complex route combinations, which can open up separation in space. Field Gulls

• Block-shedding polish — Can be engaged by maulers and needs refinement shedding blocks more quickly on inside runs. NFL Draft Buzz

• Consistent playmaking ceiling — While reliable, some evaluators see a floor as a complementary starter rather than an every-down playmaker until instincts in the box fully translate to the NFL. Field Gulls

• Injury history note — Missed some time with a foot issue in 2023 (not a major red flag but worth monitoring for availability). Bleacher Report

Fit & Outlook

Junior Colson projects as a three-down, off-ball linebacker who fits best in modern defenses that ask linebackers to be versatile in coverage and respected in the run game. He’s an immediate scheme fit in nickel/zone-heavy fronts as a boundary-to-boundary defender who can match TEs and contribute on obvious run downs. With NFL coaching to tighten his block-shedding and sharpen reaction to multi-route concepts, Colson has the upside to be a high-value starting linebacker in year 2–3 — particularly for teams that prioritize coverage versatility at the second level. Expect him to be a steady, reliable starter with upside as a matchup weapon in subpackages. Los Angeles Chargers