The 10 greatest linebackers in NFL history showcase a blend of talent, tenacity, and transformative impact on the game. The modern NFL linebacker has evolved, with agility and speed becoming essential attributes. Yet, the truly exceptional linebackers transcend these changes, leaving their mark regardless of the era or defensive scheme.
Throughout the league’s storied past, the linebacker position stands out for its depth and the remarkable roster of elite players who have excelled. As the game continues to evolve, these legends remain benchmarks for excellence in the sport.
Here are the 10 greatest linebackers in NFL history.
10. Derrick Thomas
Derrick Thomas made an indelible mark on the NFL, finishing every season he played with no less than seven sacks. His remarkable career included nine Pro Bowl selections and two First-Team All-Pro nods, culminating in a total of 126.5 sacks, placing him 26th on the all-time list.
9. Jack Lambert
Selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1974 NFL Draft, Jack Lambert quickly became a cornerstone of one of the league’s most formidable defenses. He won the starting middle linebacker position as a rookie and maintained it throughout his 11-year career, earning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year honors and making the Pro Bowl for nine consecutive seasons. Lambert’s accolades include six First-Team All-Pro selections and a 1976 AP Defensive Player of the Year title, thanks to his league-leading eight fumble recoveries. He also secured four Super Bowl championships during his early years.
His legacy is marked by his fierce competitiveness and leadership on the field.
8. Junior Seau
Junior Seau is remembered for his leadership and skill, notably guiding the Chargers to their only Super Bowl appearance in 1994. That season, he recorded 155 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and three fumble recoveries, showcasing his all-around ability on the field.
7. Chuck Bednarik
Chuck Bednarik was one of the last true two-way players in the NFL, making a significant impact on both offense and defense for the Philadelphia Eagles. His 14-year career was spent entirely in Philadelphia, where he earned the honor of having his No. 60 jersey retired. Bednarik’s durability was remarkable, as he played in 169 of a possible 172 games, earning eight Pro Bowl selections and six First-Team All-Pro nods. His legacy continues with the Bednarik Award, given annually to the best defensive player in college football.
His contributions to the game are celebrated and remembered by fans and players alike.
6. Derrick Brooks
Derrick Brooks, a standout at the University of Florida, was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and played his entire 14-year career with the team. His durability is remarkable, as he started all but three games in his rookie season and never missed a start afterward. In 2002, he was recognized as the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year, leading the league with 173 total tackles and five interceptions, three of which were returned for touchdowns. Brooks played a pivotal role in the Buccaneers’ Super Bowl victory that same year.
His impressive career totals include 1,713 tackles, 25 interceptions, and 13.5 sacks, along with 11 Pro Bowl selections and five First-Team All-Pro nods.
5. Ted Hendricks
Ted Hendricks was known for his durability, starting 215 consecutive regular-season games. His career included eight Pro Bowl appearances, four championships, and six All-Pro selections. Hendricks finished his career with impressive stats, including 26 interceptions, 61 sacks, and 16 fumble recoveries, solidifying his legacy as one of the game’s greats.
4. Jack Ham
Jack Ham was a key figure in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense throughout his 12 seasons with the team. He shares a unique distinction with Ray Lewis, as both are the only players in NFL history to retire with at least 25 sacks, 30 interceptions, and 20 fumble recoveries. Ham’s career totals include 32 interceptions, 21 fumble recoveries, and 25.5 sacks, along with eight Pro Bowl selections and six consecutive First-Team All-Pro honors. His contributions helped the Steelers secure four Super Bowl titles.
His football IQ and instincts made him a formidable opponent on the field.
3. Mike Singletary
Mike Singletary, a legendary figure for the Chicago Bears, was drafted in 1981 and spent his entire career with the team. He started 172 games and consistently ranked as the Bears’ top tackler, accumulating 1,488 tackles while missing only two games during his tenure. Singletary won two Defensive Player of the Year awards and was selected for 10 Pro Bowls and eight First-Team All-Pro honors. His leadership was instrumental in the Bears’ victory in the 1985 Super Bowl, where they held the Patriots to just seven rushing yards.
His relentless pursuit and fierce determination defined his playing style.
2. Dick Butkus
Dick Butkus is often hailed as one of the most fearsome linebackers in NFL history. His career stats include 22 interceptions, 27 fumble recoveries, and 11 sacks, showcasing his all-around defensive prowess. Butkus was known for his aggressive playing style, which earned him two seasons in the top five of the league MVP voting.
1. Ray Lewis
Ray Lewis, a defining player for the Baltimore Ravens, retired holding numerous franchise records, including seasons played (17), total games (228), and opponent fumble recoveries (20). He also recorded 2,643 tackles, the most in franchise history, and set a single-season record with 225 tackles. Lewis concluded his illustrious career in 2012 by leading the Ravens to their second Super Bowl title, solidifying his legacy as one of the game’s greatest linebackers.
Honorable mentions:
- Chuck Howley
- Luke Kuechly
- Brian Urlacher
- Bill George
- Joe Schmidt
- Ray Nitschke
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