Former Alabama LB excited to compete for playing time with Browns: “I can’t wait to show them I’m better than them”

Oct 12, 2024; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Malachi Moore (13) and Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Justin Jefferson (15) combine to tackle South Carolina Gamecocks tight end Michael Smith (20) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary Cosby Jr.-Imagn Images

Can Justin Jeffesron carve out a role for himself as a rookie linebacker for the Cleveland Browns?

Browns fifth-round LB Justin Jefferson pic.twitter.com/DY5wHq7GwO

— Daniel Oyefusi (@DanielOyefusi) May 9, 2026

The Browns selected Jefferson in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft with the No. 149 overall pick.

Carson Schwesinger and Quincy Williams are expected to start at linebacker for the Browns during the upcoming NFL season.

Schwesinger was named the defensive rookie of the year last season. Williams was signed by the Browns as a free agent after being a starting linebacker for the New York Jets. Jefferson was asked about competing with the duo for playing time at Cleveland’s rookie minicamp.

“I’m excited to meet those guys and really excited to compete,” Jefferson said with a playful laugh. “Like I said, I love to compete. I can’t wait to show them I’m better than them.”

How #Browns 5th round LB Justin Jefferson playfully ranks himself v Carson Schwesinger and Quincy Williams: pic.twitter.com/1CFc5SBg19

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) May 9, 2026

Jefferson was the Crimson Tide’s second leading tackler during the 2025 season. He finished the year with 85 total tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, five pass breakups, one interception and one forced fumble.