Top 10 Best Linebackers in NFL History
The linebacker position is the heart and soul of any defensive unit in American football. These gridiron warriors are tasked with halting offensive advances, breaking up pass attempts, and putting relentless pressure on the quarterback. Their roles require a potent mix of speed, strength, football intelligence, and ferocious tenacity. This article pays tribute to the top 10 best linebackers in NFL history – players who have not only shattered records but also revolutionized the linebacker position. From storied Hall of Famers to modern-day game-changers, these are the best linebackers of all-time who left a mark in NFL history.
I also did an NFL ranking of the top 50 best Linebackers of all-time tier list so be sure to check it out!
Top 10 Best Linebackers in NFL History – #10 Brian Urlacher
#10 – Brian Urlacher
Kicking off this list at number 10 is Brian Urlacher, the Midway Monster who defined an era for the Chicago Bears. Urlacher, with his bald head and unyielding presence, was the face of the Bears for over a decade, carving out a legacy that stands tall in the pantheon of NFL greats.
Urlacher, a first-round pick by the Bears in the 2000 draft, made an immediate impact. His rookie year saw him crowned as the NFL’s Defensive Rookie of the Year. From there, it was a skyward trajectory. Eight Pro Bowl invitations, four First-Team All-Pro selections, and a well-deserved recognition as the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2005. The guy was simply phenomenal.
But, as we know, football isn’t just about the hardware. Urlacher was a statistical marvel. With over 1,000 tackles, 41.5 sacks, and 22 interceptions, he was a three-dimensional threat. Whether it was stuffing the run, rushing the passer, or dropping back in coverage, Urlacher had it covered.
But what set Urlacher apart was his football IQ. He had an uncanny ability to read offenses, anticipate plays, and adjust on the fly. He was a born leader, his intensity infectious and his commitment to the game unmatched.
Off the field, Urlacher was a fan favorite. His down-to-earth demeanor, coupled with his on-field intensity, made him an icon in the Windy City. He represented the blue-collar spirit of Chicago, embodying the city’s hardworking, never-give-up ethos.
In essence, Brian Urlacher was more than just a fantastic linebacker; he was an embodiment of the city he represented and the game he loved. He left an indelible mark on the Bears, the city of Chicago, and the NFL. His legacy serves as a reminder of the power of hard work, passion, and a deep love for the game.
| Career NFL Statistics | |||||||||||
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- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2005)
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2000)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (2001, 2002, 2005, 2006)
- Second-team All-Pro (2010)
- 8× Pro Bowl (2000–2003, 2005, 2006, 2010, 2011)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2000)
- 100 greatest Bears of All-Time
- Chicago Bears (2000–2012)
Top 10 Best Linebackers in NFL History – #9 Derrick Brooks
#9 – Derrick Brooks
Coming in at number 8, let’s talk about Derrick Brooks, a man who put the “D” in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. An icon in the world of linebackers, Brooks’ impact on the game was as big as the Florida sun.
Brooks was a first-round pick by the Bucs in the ’95 draft and he made it clear from the get-go that he was there to make a difference. He earned an impressive 11 Pro Bowl appearances, was named First-Team All-Pro five times, and played a major role in leading the Bucs to their first Super Bowl victory in 2002. And to top it off, he was named the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2002.
When it comes to stats, Brooks was as solid as they come. He recorded over 1,700 tackles, snagged 25 interceptions, and returned six of those picks for touchdowns. The man was always ready to make a big play and always seemed to be in the right place at the right time.
But Brooks wasn’t just about the big plays and the big stats. He was a true team player, known for his leadership and work ethic. His understanding of the game was unparalleled, and his dedication to his craft made him a beacon of inspiration for his teammates.
Off the field, Brooks was as humble as they come. He was a pillar of the Tampa Bay community, known for his philanthropy and commitment to giving back. He embodied the spirit of the game, both on and off the field.
So here’s the bottom line: Derrick Brooks was a stellar linebacker, a shining example of what it means to play the game with heart, intelligence, and a dash of humility. As we reflect on the history of the NFL and its greatest linebackers, Brooks’ name stands tall. His contributions to the game and to the community have left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire.
| Career NFL Statistics | |||||||||||
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- Super Bowl champion (XXXVII)
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2002)
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2000)
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1999, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2005)
- 4× Second-team All-Pro (1997, 1998, 2001, 2003)
- 11× Pro Bowl (1997–2006, 2008)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1995)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers Ring of Honor
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers No. 55 retired
- Bart Starr Award (2004)
- Jack Lambert Trophy (1994)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1995–2008)
Top 10 Best Linebackers in NFL History – #8 Junior Seau
#8 – Junior Seau
Now, it’s time to talk about Junior Seau, a man whose impact on the NFL was as big as his personality. A San Diego Chargers legend, Seau played the game with an intensity and passion that few could match. His untimely death left a void in the football world, but his legacy continues to shine bright.
Seau was a top pick by the Chargers in the ’90 draft and quickly became a cornerstone of their defense. With twelve Pro Bowl appearances and six First-Team All-Pro selections, Seau’s career was one decorated with accolades and recognition. In ’92, he was named the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year, a testament to his dominance on the field.
Stat-wise, Seau was a beast. He tallied over 1,500 tackles, recorded 18 interceptions, and recovered 18 fumbles. The man was a ball-hawk, always finding a way to be in the right place at the right time.
But Seau was more than just a powerhouse on the field. He played with an energy and passion that was truly infectious. He was a natural leader, and his larger-than-life personality made him a fan favorite in San Diego and beyond.
Sadly, Seau’s life came to an untimely end in 2012, when he took his own life at the age of 43. His death put a spotlight on the issue of brain injuries in the NFL, and his legacy now includes the ongoing efforts to understand and prevent these injuries in football.
In a nutshell, Junior Seau was a titan in the NFL, a man who played the game with a fervor and intensity that few could match. His story is one of great triumph and tragic loss, and his impact on the game extends far beyond the field. His memory continues to inspire, reminding us all of the highs and lows of the sport we love and the importance of protecting those who play it.
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- 6× First-team All-Pro (1992–1994, 1996, 1998, 2000)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1995, 1997, 1999)
- 12× Pro Bowl (1991–2002)
- NFL Man of the Year (1994)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Los Angeles Chargers Hall of Fame
- Los Angeles Chargers No. 55 retired
- San Diego Chargers (1990–2002)
- Miami Dolphins (2003–2005)
- New England Patriots (2006–2009)
Top 10 Best Linebackers in NFL History – #7 Jack Ham
#7 – Jack Ham
Jack Ham was a cornerstone of the legendary “Steel Curtain” defense and left a legacy that still resonates in the annals of NFL history.
Ham was a second-round pick by the Steelers in the ’71 draft and he quickly made it clear that he was worth every penny. He made eight straight trips to the Pro Bowl from 1973 to 1980 and earned six First-Team All-Pro selections. As part of the formidable Steelers of the 70s, Ham helped his team clinch four Super Bowl titles. And to top it all off, he was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in ’75.
But it’s not just about the accolades. Ham recorded over 1,000 tackles, snagged 32 interceptions, and recovered 21 fumbles. The man had a sixth sense for where the ball was going to be, making him a real thorn in the side for any offense he faced.
But what made Ham truly special was his combination of intelligence and athleticism. He was a master of his craft, reading plays like an open book and making adjustments on the fly. His leadership skills were second to none and his ability to make big plays in crucial moments made him a legend in Pittsburgh.
Away from the gridiron, Ham was known for his blue-collar work ethic and dedication to the game. He was the kind of player who pushed himself and his teammates to the limit, embodying the spirit of the city he represented.
So here’s the lowdown: Jack Ham was a top-tier linebacker and a true stalwart of the NFL. His smarts, leadership, and knack for making big plays have solidified his place in football history. Even as the game continues to evolve, the legacy of Jack Ham remains, reminding us of the golden era of the Steelers and setting the bar for what it means to be a truly great linebacker.
- 4× Super Bowl champion (IX, X, XIII, XIV)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1974–1979)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1973, 1980)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1973–1980)
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team
- Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor
- Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame
- Pittsburgh Steelers (1971–1982)
Top 10 Best Linebackers in NFL History – #6 Derrick Thomas
#6 – Derrick Thomas
Talking about Derrick Thomas always brings a mix of admiration for his on-field prowess and a touch of sadness, considering his untimely departure from us. Thomas was a Kansas City Chiefs legend, a real dynamo on the field whose life was cut tragically short.
Thomas was the Chiefs’ first-round pick in the ’89 draft and boy, he did not disappoint. This fella put on a show every time he stepped on the field. With nine Pro Bowl invitations, a First-Team All-Pro selection, and a well-deserved title as the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year in ’90, Thomas left an indelible mark on the game.
When you delve into the stats, Thomas’ talent was nothing short of spectacular. The man tallied an incredible 126.5 sacks and forced a staggering 45 fumbles. Simply put, he was a quarterback’s nightmare and a game-changer every time he got his mitts on the pigskin.
But there was more to Thomas than just big plays and stunning stats. He was a leader, a team player, and a man with an insatiable drive to be the best. His fiery spirit was contagious, and his tenacity made him a force to be reckoned with on the field.
Off the field, Thomas was known for his dedication to the game. He was the kind of guy who inspired his teammates to push their limits and strive for greatness.
Sadly, Thomas’ life was cut short in a car accident in 2000. He was only 33. It was a loss felt deeply across the NFL and especially in Kansas City, where Thomas had become a beloved figure.
Derrick Thomas wasn’t just a standout linebacker, he was a standout person. His career might have been shorter than we would have liked, but his legacy is as long as they come. His spirit lives on in the game, reminding us all of what passion, determination, and a love for football really look like. And even though he’s no longer with us, his impact on the NFL and the linebacker position will never be forgotten.
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- NFL Man of the Year (1993)
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1989)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1990, 1991)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1993, 1994, 1996)
- 9× Pro Bowl (1989–1997)
- 2× NFL forced fumbles leader (1990, 1992)
- NFL sacks leader (1990)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1989)
- “Whizzer” White NFL Man of the Year Award (1995)
- Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame
- Kansas City Chiefs No. 58 retired
- Kansas City Chiefs (1989–1999)
Top 10 Best Linebackers in NFL History – #5 Mike Singletary
#5 – Mike Singletary
Oh boy, now we’re talkin’ about Mike Singletary, a guy who was all heart, all muscle, and all fire. This fella was a titan in the middle of the Chicago Bears’ defense, carving out a legendary career that spanned 12 seasons.
Drafted by the Bears in ’81, Singletary didn’t waste any time showing the NFL what he was made of. He earned himself a whopping ten trips to the Pro Bowl and was named First-Team All-Pro seven times. He also played a key role in the Bears’ unforgettable Super Bowl XX victory in ’85, a season that saw him crowned as the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year.
But let’s not forget the stats that make Singletary a standout. The man racked up over 1,000 tackles and recovered 19 fumbles, making him a real nuisance for any offensive line that dared stand in his way.
But Singletary wasn’t just about brute force and crunching tackles. The man had a football IQ that was off the charts. He could read offenses like a book and adjust his defense like a master chess player. His leadership was top-notch and his fiery passion for the game was infectious.
Off the gridiron, Singletary was known for his drive and dedication to the game. The man would eat, sleep, and breathe football, inspiring his teammates to give their all every single time. Enough to become a coach later in life.
Mike Singletary was more than just a linebacker. He was a leader, a game-changer, and a living embodiment of intensity on the football field. As we look back at the history of the NFL and its greatest linebackers, Singletary’s name is written in bold, underlined twice. His legacy continues to shape the game, and his story serves as a reminder of the sheer grit, intelligence, and passion it takes to be truly great.
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- Super Bowl champion (XX)
- 2× NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1985, 1988)
- NFL Man of the Year (1990)
- 7× First-team All-Pro (1984–1989, 1991)
- Second-team All-Pro (1990)
- 10× Pro Bowl (1983–1992)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- Bart Starr Award (1991)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1981)
- 100 greatest Bears of All-Time
- Chicago Bears (1981–1992)
Top 10 Best Linebackers in NFL History – #4 Jack Lambert
#4 – Jack Lambert
Alright, buckle up folks, because we’re about to dive into the saga of Jack Lambert, an NFL legend and a winner. He’s the man who put steel in the Pittsburgh Steelers and was a pillar of their defense for a solid 11 seasons.
Lambert’s tale began in the ’74 NFL Draft, when the Steelers picked him up in the second round. He quickly got down to business, earning nine trips to the Pro Bowl, six First-Team All-Pro selections, and played a key role in bringing home four Super Bowl trophies to Pittsburgh in the 70s. Oh, and did I mention he bagged the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in ’76?
But let’s talk numbers for a second. Lambert chalked up over 1,000 tackles, snagged 28 interceptions, and recovered 17 fumbles. If you were an offensive player, you’d probably have a better chance winning the lottery than getting past Lambert.
But what set Lambert apart wasn’t just his bone-crushing tackles or his knack for always being where the ball was. It was his heart. The man was a born leader, with a piercing gaze that seemed to see right through the opposing team’s playbook. He was the heart and soul of the Steelers’ famed “Steel Curtain” defense and his fearless play inspired the whole team.
Off the field, he was as tough as they come. The man bled black and gold, embodying the blue-collar spirit of Pittsburgh and earning him a permanent place in the city’s heart.
So, when we’re talking about the best linebackers in NFL history, you bet Jack Lambert’s name is gonna come up. He had the toughness, the leadership, and the stats to back it all up. The game may have changed over the years, but the legend of Jack Lambert isn’t going anywhere. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of linebackers and remind us all of what true grit and determination look like.
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- 4× Super Bowl champion (IX, X, XIII, XIV)
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1976)
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1974)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1976, 1979–1983)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1975, 1978)
- 9× Pro Bowl (1975–1983)
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1974)
- Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team
- Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor
- Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame
- Pittsburgh Steelers (1974–1984)
Top 10 Best Linebackers in NFL History – #3 Dick Butkus
#3 – Dick Butkus
Talkin’ about the all-time greats of NFL linebackers, I’d be off my rocker if I didn’t bring up Dick Butkus. Here’s a guy who hit the gridiron with the ferocity of a grizzly bear and the cunning of a fox. Butkus was the heart and soul of the Chicago Bears for nine seasons, and let me tell ya, he played every game like it was his last.
Butkus joined the big league in ’65 when the Bears grabbed him in the first round of the draft. Boy, did he prove his worth, racking up eight Pro Bowl nods and five First-Team All-Pro selections. Not just that, he bagged the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year in ’69 and ’70.
But Butkus wasn’t just about collecting personal accolades, oh no. He had over 1,000 tackles, 22 interceptions, and he recovered 27 fumbles. I reckon opposing offenses must’ve seen him in their nightmares, knowing he could turn the game on its head with a single play. And could send you to the training room as one of the hardest hitters in NFL history.
Butkus was more than just a stat machine, though. He played with a kind of fire in his belly that made him stand out from the pack. He set the bar for what it meant to be a middle linebacker and rewrote the rulebook on defensive intensity.
Away from the spotlight, Butkus was a true leader, someone who’d bleed for his team and the game he loved. His unmatched work ethic and passion became the stuff of legends, inspiring both his mates in the locker room and the fans packing the stands.
So here’s the bottom line: Dick Butkus wasn’t just a great linebacker, he was one of the very best. The man was a force of nature on the field, a leader off it, and an inspiration to everyone who loves the game. As the years roll on and the game keeps changing, the legacy of Butkus will live on, pushing future linebackers to strive for greatness and keeping football fans like you and me in awe of what one man can achieve.
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- 2× NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1969, 1970)
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1965, 1968–1970, 1972)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1966, 1967, 1971)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1965–1972)
- George Halas Award (1974)
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Chicago Bears No. 51 retired
- 100 greatest Bears of All-Time
- Chicago Bears (1965–1973)
NFL Top 10 Best Linebackers of All-Time – #2 Ray Lewis
#2 – Ray Lewis
Oh, buckle up folks, ’cause we’re about to talk about Ray Lewis, the man who was the heartbeat of the Baltimore Ravens for 17 incredible seasons. A titan in the middle of the Ravens’ defense, Lewis left an impact on the game that can still be felt today.
Lewis was a first-round pick by the Ravens in the ’96 draft and man, did he make a statement. His ferocious play, leadership, and uncanny ability to read the game led to 13 Pro Bowl invitations, seven First-Team All-Pro selections, and two NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards. He also guided the Ravens to two Super Bowl titles and was named Super Bowl MVP in 2000.
Stat-wise, Lewis was nothing short of a phenom. He racked up over 2,000 tackles, nabbed 31 interceptions, and forced 19 fumbles. And let’s not forget his 41.5 sacks. This bloke was a force to be reckoned with on the gridiron, delivering bone-crushing hits and making key plays in big moments.
But Lewis was more than just an exceptional player. He was a leader, a motivator, and the heart and soul of the Ravens. His pre-game speeches were legendary, and his ability to inspire his teammates was second to none. Even off the field, Lewis was known for his leadership and dedication to the game.
When we talk about the greatest linebackers in NFL history, there’s no doubt that Ray Lewis is in the conversation. His intensity, leadership, and unmatched football IQ have solidified his place in the annals of the game. He was a true gridiron warrior, and his legacy continues to inspire the next generation of football players. So here’s to Ray Lewis, a true giant in the world of football.
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- 2× Super Bowl champion (XXXV, XLVII)
- Super Bowl MVP (XXXV)
- 2× NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2000, 2003)
- 7× First-team All-Pro (1999–2001, 2003, 2004, 2008, 2009)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1997, 1998, 2010)
- 13× Pro Bowl (1997–2001, 2003, 2004, 2006–2011)
- 3× NFL tackles leader (1997, 1999, 2001)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Baltimore Ravens Ring of Honor
- Baltimore Ravens (1996–2012)
Top 10 Best Linebackers in NFL History – #1 Lawrence Taylor
#1 – Lawrence Taylor
Hold onto your hats, folks, because we’re about to delve into the remarkable career of Lawrence Taylor, arguably the best linebacker—heck, possibly even the best player—to ever grace the gridiron. If there was ever a player who redefined a position and changed the game forever, it was L.T.
Picked by the New York Giants in the first round of the 1981 NFL Draft, Taylor hit the ground running, and boy, did he hit hard. He was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, and that was just the beginning. A whopping 10 Pro Bowl selections, 10 First-Team All-Pro nods, and two Super Bowl titles later, and it was clear L.T. was in a league of his own.
But the accolades don’t stop there. Taylor was also a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and became only the second defensive player in NFL history to win the coveted NFL MVP award in 1986. If that doesn’t spell greatness, I don’t know what does.
In terms of statistics, L.T. tallied an amazing 132.5 official sacks (not counting his rookie year, since the sack didn’t become an official stat until 1982), countless pressures, and forced 33 fumbles. This bloke wasn’t just a game-changer; he was a game dominator.
But what truly sets Taylor apart was his style of play. He was fast, explosive, and relentlessly aggressive. He popularized the outside linebacker position as a pass-rushing position and forced offensive coaches to rethink their strategies. He was a nightmare for quarterbacks, his mere presence on the field creating panic.
Off the field, L.T. was just as intense, and his life was marked by highs and lows. His personal struggles are well-documented, but there’s no denying the raw passion he had for the game. He played with a wild, untamed energy that electrified the crowd and inspired his teammates.
So why is Lawrence Taylor the best of the best? Well, not only was he a phenomenal player with unmatched physical prowess, but he forever changed the way football is played. His impact extends far beyond his own career, shaping the position of linebacker and the nature of defensive schemes for years to come. Simply put, L.T. wasn’t just a player; he was an icon, a revolution, a force of nature unlike anything the NFL had ever seen. And that, my friends, is what makes him the best of the best.
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- 2× Super Bowl champion (XXI, XXV)
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1986)
- 3× NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1981, 1982, 1986)
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1981)
- 8× First-team All-Pro (1981–1986, 1988, 1989)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1987, 1990)
- 10× Pro Bowl (1981–1990)
- NFL sacks leader (1986)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- New York Giants Ring of Honor
- New York Giants No. 56 retired
- 2× NFC Player of the Year (1983, 1986)
- New York Giants (1981–1993)
In Conclusion
The exploits and contributions of the top 10 best linebackers in NFL history continue to resonate throughout the sport. These players set benchmarks for future generations, redefining what it means to be a linebacker and raising the bar for defensive excellence. Their monumental impacts, tenacity on the field, and enduring legacies have firmly entrenched them in the annals of football history. As the game continues to evolve, the remarkable feats of these linebackers will forever serve as a source of inspiration for upcoming talent and football enthusiasts alike. Their names will always be synonymous with the very epitome of defensive prowess in the NFL.
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