Power Ranking NFL Linebacker Depth Charts
Of all the glamour positions in the NFL, linebacker is usually not one of the options that come to mind quickly. Sure, pass-rushers are valuable, but interior linebackers are generally nondescript outside of the most elite players. A strong linebacker unit allows a defense to deploy a variety of coverages and blitzes to help disrupt the offense.
Many of the NFL’s top teams have a great linebacker depth chart. This isn’t by mistake, either. Defensive coordinators want the versatility and unpredictability that a deep unit can offer.
We’ve created a power ranking for all 32 NFL teams. This list is based on what I’ve seen on film from the last few seasons, along with some small help from our friends at Pro Football Focus. The mixture of film and advanced statistics helps give a complete picture of the landscape.
One thing I noticed was how many talented linebackers missed significant time in 2014 with injuries. Although these players aren’t a lock to return to their previous form, we’re going to assume that they will be ready to rock this season.
Where do you think your favorite team should rank, and why? Leave your thoughts in the comments section after reading.
32. San Diego Chargers
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Outside linebackers: Melvin Ingram, Tourek Williams, Jeremiah Attaochu
Inside linebackers: Donald Butler, Denzel Perryman, Manti Te’o
We start with the worst linebacker depth chart in the NFL. The San Diego Chargers hold this dubious honor, as they lack any type of impact player at the position. Losing veterans Dwight Freeney and Jarret Johnson this offseason significantly hurts their outlook entering 2015.
Incumbent starters Donald Butler and Manti Te’o were arguably the worst in the NFL last year, missing a combined 14 tackles, per Pro Football Focus. Neither even played a full season's worth of snaps, and they still had an outrageous number of missed tackles.
The Chargers must be hopeful that second-year linebacker Jeremiah Attaochu and rookie Denzel Perryman can be impact players right away. If they are, then the outlook for this position is much better. But Attaochu played just 182 snaps in 2014 for a team that needed a boost. Don’t hold your breath that this group will be much better.
31. Arizona Cardinals
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Outside linebackers: Alex Okafor, Markus Golden, Matt Shaughnessy, Lorenzo Alexander
Inside linebackers: Kevin Minter, Sean Weatherspoon
Despite entering the offseason with a clear need to upgrade the linebacker position, the Arizona Cardinals could go into 2015 with one of the worst depth charts in the NFL. Of course, the future of Daryl Washington is still up in the air. If he returns, this depth chart becomes a little brighter.
Arizona cannot count on Washington returning, though. Thus, the team is stuck with an uninspiring group of linebackers unless something with him dramatically changes. The situation at inside linebacker is slightly more promising than the pair outside, though.
At outside linebacker, Alex Okafor had a solid eight sacks in 2014. But he also missed 11 tackles and only registered 21 tackles, per Pro Football Focus. Across from him will be rookie Markus Golden and a run-stuffing linebacker in Matt Shaughnessy. There’s just not a solid impact player here.
30. New York Giants
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Outside linebackers: J.T. Thomas, Mark Herzlich, Devon Kennard
Inside linebackers: Jon Beason, Jameel McClain
The New York Giants’ linebacker depth chart was ravaged by injuries last year. Despite being a talented unit with two qualified starters in 2014, the Giants couldn’t get more than 338 snaps from their top returning starter, Devon Kennard. Add in the injuries to Jon Beason and Mark Herzlich, and it’s easy to see why this unit ranks so low.
The good news for the Giants is it’s a new year and everyone should be healthy. A healthy Beason and Kennard should help. We aren’t banking on that, but it’s something to consider when we revisit this list during the season.
J.T. Thomas is an interesting addition who can boost the Giants’ ability on passing downs. He is a good athlete who can cover ground quickly. He brings a new skill set to this unit.
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29. Miami Dolphins
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Outside linebackers: Jelani Jenkins, Chris McCain, Spencer Paysinger
Inside linebackers: Koa Misi, Kelvin Sheppard
When the Miami Dolphins realized they could sign All-Pro defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh in free agency, the franchise pounced. That was the right decision, as he is a Hall of Fame-type talent. The only negative fallout from the signing is the Dolphins were unable to upgrade the linebacker position.
Miami did not add to the depth chart in a significant way this offseason. Weak-side linebacker Jelani Jenkins is an underrated player after a breakout 2014 campaign, but the rest of the group is uninspiring.
Since Miami couldn’t find another option, Koa Misi will again be the man in the middle. He was a solid strong-side linebacker before sliding over but was often overmatched in the run game as the middle linebacker in 2014. There’s also concern about the strong-side position. Second-year linebacker Chris McCain is slated to start, but he played just 46 snaps in 2014, per Pro Football Focus.
28. Indianapolis Colts
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Outside linebackers: Robert Mathis, Trent Cole, Bjoern Werner, Erik Walden, Jonathan Newsome
Inside linebackers: D’Qwell Jackson, Nate Irving, Jerrell Freeman, Amarlo Herrera
The most troublesome unit on the Indianapolis Colts is at linebacker. Since the Colts haven’t developed a stud pass-rusher or inside linebacker in years, they’ve been left with veterans on their last legs in the league. This is fine for the short term so long as everyone stays healthy, but that hasn’t been the case.
Once a star edge-rusher, Robert Mathis’ potential impact on the Colts could be great or irrelevant. Injuries and a suspension have stripped him of any reliability. If he can produce like he did in 2013, then this unit will rank much higher later on.
The addition of Trent Cole provides a decent rush option for the rotation of Mathis, Werner, Walden and Newsome. The latter three haven’t been impressive in their playing time, though.
Inside linebacker is a concern for the Colts, too. Jackson always posts solid tackle totals but is a limited player who only does well between the tackles. His sidekick Jerrell Freeman is a nice complement in coverage with his quickness in space.
27. Cincinnati Bengals
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Outside linebackers: Vontaze Burfict, Emmanuel Lamur, Sean Porter, Paul Dawson
Inside linebackers: Rey Maualuga, A.J. Hawk
Once a depth chart that would have ranked much higher on this list, the Cincinnati Bengals’ linebacker corps is much more limited at this point. Injuries and poor play have dropped the quality of play from this group. Only Rey Maualuga played decently when he was even healthy in 2014.
The only full-timer who is back with the Bengals from last year is Emmanuel Lamur. He is an interesting player because of his ability to play in space, but he’s not consistent or a playmaker.
Adding Hawk to the mix is a nice security blanket in case Maualuga is hurt. Still, the group of Hawk, Burfict and Maualuga is limited; they are as run-stoppers with little upside in coverage.
Drafting Paul Dawson in the 2015 draft may pay off down the line. He was productive in college and was a great value pick for the Bengals in the third round.
26. St. Louis Rams
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Outside linebackers: Akeem Ayers, Alec Ogletree
Inside linebackers: James Laurinaitis
Despite playing behind one of the best defensive fronts in the NFL, the St. Louis Rams’ linebackers had a poor 2014 campaign. Pro Football Focus graded all of their linebackers negatively, largely for poor run defense. That’s inexcusable when playing behind an elite defensive line.
The addition of Akeem Ayers is intriguing, though. He resurrected his career with the New England Patriots in 2014 after struggling with the Tennessee Titans previously. He adds legitimate talent to the mix here.
Laurinaitis and Ogletree can play a large amount of snaps and not be a disaster. That’s more than what some other teams have going for them. The hope here is Ogletree develops his instincts and tackling ability in order to become more consistent.
25. Dallas Cowboys
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Outside linebackers: Sean Lee, Anthony Hitchens
Inside linebackers: Rolando McClain, Damien Wilson
Faced with several tough salary-cap decisions this past offseason, the Dallas Cowboys had to say goodbye to their talented weak-side linebacker, Justin Durant. He was limited in 2014 with injuries but was a key cog to a good unit in 2013. The Cowboys’ projected starting lineup for 2015 is much less promising without him.
Sean Lee is a great linebacker when he’s healthy. Unfortunately, he’s missed at least five games every year since 2011, so any contributions from him will be a bonus at this point. Across from Lee is Anthony Hitchens, who is a limited player on passing plays.
The star of the group is Rolando McClain. In a way, this isn’t shocking, as he was always talented. If he truly loves the game now, then he’ll continue to be an impact middle linebacker.
24. Jacksonville Jaguars
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Outside linebackers: Telvin Smith, Dan Skuta
Inside linebackers: Paul Posluszny
Somewhat quietly, the Jacksonville Jaguars found a potential star linebacker in Telvin Smith from the 2014 draft. He posted 72 solo tackles and forced four fumbles in nine starts, which outproduced many of his draft-class competitors. He’ll enter the season as a starter in 2015, which should only boost his profile.
The addition of Dan Skuta may have been a sneaky-good signing. Skuta was an effective pass-rusher with the 49ers in limited snaps. He can also expect to see a massive snaps increase this year.
Returning off an injury, Paul Posluszny is a decent enough run defender to start at middle linebacker. He isn’t the most athletic or smoothest player, but he gets to the ball well. Out of the last five years, he has posted three 100-plus tackle seasons.
23. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Outside linebackers: Lavonte David, Bruce Carter
Inside linebackers: Danny Lansanah, Kwon Alexander
When talking about the best linebackers in the NFL, it’s inevitable that Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ linebacker Lavonte David will come up. His tremendous feel for the game and knack for turnovers are why he’s regarded so highly. He’s one of the elites.
A breakout linebacker for the Buccaneers in 2014 was Danny Lansanah. He benefited from the new defense that Lovie Smith implemented but also showed good competence in coverage. That’s tough to find.
The other linebacker spots are major question marks. Strong-side linebacker Bruce Carter was unimpressive while with the Cowboys, but he will assume a starting spot with ease. Rookie Kwon Alexander is a good athlete who must learn the nuances of the linebacker position.
22. New York Jets
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Outside linebackers: Quinton Coples, Jason Babin, Calvin Pace, Lorenzo Mauldin
Inside linebackers: David Harris, Demario Davis, Taiwan Jones
Squished between one of the best defensive fronts and backfields in the NFL is a pedestrian linebacker corps. The New York Jets haven’t spent significant resources there like they have elsewhere. Now, the unit is aging and may not be productive enough.
Having David Harris at inside linebacker is a positive, as he is still a solid thumper in the run game. Demario Davis was good in 2014 as well, providing a young and talented linebacker when this group is overhauled in the near future.
The worry is at outside linebacker. Jason Babin was a good rush specialist in 2014 but is 35 years old now. Calvin Pace is 34 and clearly on the downside of his career. The drop-off for these two could be devastating to the Jets’ pass rush.
21. Houston Texans
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Outside linebackers: Jadeveon Clowney, Whitney Mercilus, John Simon
Inside linebackers: Brian Cushing, Benardrick McKinney
The Houston Texans’ linebacker group could have the biggest rise as the season progresses. With edge-rushers like Jadeveon Clowney and Whitney Mercilus ready to be unleashed, this is a potentially fearsome front. But we’re hinging on the potential impact of Clowney, not building off what we know he’ll do.
That’s the trouble with young players. We don’t know if Clowney will fulfill his potential, so we’ll err on the side of caution and say he’ll be decent but not great.
Houston’s inside presence with Brian Cushing and Benardrick McKinney should be improved over what the Texans had last year, too. If McKinney and Clowney both hit the ground running quickly, then expect to see this unit skyrocket up these rankings.
20. Green Bay Packers
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Outside linebackers: Clay Matthews, Julius Peppers, Nick Perry
Inside linebackers: Carl Bradford, Sam Barrington, Jake Ryan
Linebacker has been somewhat of a problem area for years for the Green Bay Packers. The Packers defense has struggled to match the offense’s production for a while, potentially costing the franchise more Super Bowl appearances. After some cost-cutting moves, the Packers are hoping this group will be more productive.
Even with the struggles of the unit, the team has two great pass-rushers in Clay Matthews and Julius Peppers. They alone are worthy of a top-20 ranking in the NFL because they’re better impact players than what the teams lower on this list have.
Who starts at inside linebacker is a huge question for the Packers. It seems that Carl Bradford should be in position to start, but the Packers might have to use Matthews inside again to help cover the massive hole in their 3-4 front.
19. Chicago Bears
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Outside linebackers: Pernell McPhee, Jared Allen, Shea McClellin
Inside linebackers: Jon Bostic, Mason Foster, Christian Jones
Credit must go to the Chicago Bears for a solid offseason. Pass-rusher Pernell McPhee was a great signing for a unit that lacked a second pass-rush threat. Now in a 3-4, the linebackers should look better than before as the scheme fits the talents' skill sets well.
Though the Bears dealt with injuries in 2014, this is a defense with three notable impact players at the linebacker position. Middle linebacker Jon Bostic is solid enough against the run and pass to be a three-down player. Next to him is Mason Foster, who is a good complementary piece.
Jared Allen and McPhee will be tough to defend at outside linebacker. Moving from defensive end to linebacker should help alleviate the wear on Allen, as his focus will be more on the pass rush. That means a new breath of life for Allen, who appeared sluggish at times late in the 2014 season.
18. Oakland Raiders
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Outside linebackers: Khalil Mack, Sio Moore, Malcolm Smith
Inside linebackers: Curtis Lofton, Ben Heeney
The Oakland Raiders hit a home run with their 2014 first-round pick, Khalil Mack. The linebacker took the NFL by storm as a rookie, creating 40 quarterback hurries and 48 run stops, per Pro Football Focus.
Forget being the best rookie—he was arguably the best outside linebacker in the NFL.
Across from Mack are Sio Moore and Malcolm Smith. They will be impact players on pass plays but in different ways. Moore is a better pass-rusher, while Smith is versatile enough to drop into coverage.
The addition of Curtis Lofton at middle linebacker was a good buy-low move on the former Saints linebacker. He wasn’t very good in 2014, but the entire unit he played on struggled to be in position. Oakland has solid talent around him. That could help spring a comeback season.
17. Pittsburgh Steelers
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Outside linebackers: James Harrison, Jarvis Jones, Arthur Moats, Bud Dupree
Inside linebackers: Ryan Shazier, Lawrence Timmons, Sean Spence, Vince Williams
Losing linebacker Jason Worilds dropped the Pittsburgh Steelers’ linebacker group on this list. He was the team’s top playmaker at the position, showing a strong pass-rush prowess. Now it is up to Jarvis Jones and Bud Dupree to pick up the slack.
Jones hasn’t shown any type of NFL potential, but Dupree is an athletic freak. He needs to work on his technique, so it may take time for Dupree to make a big impact. Veteran James Harrison is still somehow an effective rotation player, which is amazing since he's 37 years old.
Ryan Shazier and Lawrence Timmons have the potential to be the best pair of inside ‘backers in the NFL. Timmons was stellar in 2014 as a run defender, logging 58 run stops and 102 tackles, per PFF. Shazier dealt with injuries, though, so we’ll have to see if he can live up to his end of the bargain.
16. Atlanta Falcons
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Outside linebackers: Vic Beasley, Justin Durant, Brooks Reed
Inside linebackers: Paul Worrilow
Another team that added significant talent to its roster this offseason was the Atlanta Falcons. Atlanta desperately needed to upgrade the pass rush and accomplished that by acquiring Vic Beasley and Brooks Reed. Each will provide quarterback hurries and sacks throughout the season.
Weak-side linebacker Justin Durant was a potentially great buy-low signing. He missed most of the 2014 season but was a breakout performer in 2013. His talent could alter this unit’s outlook even more positively.
The concern comes at middle linebacker. Paul Worrilow has put up major statistics the last two seasons, but Pro Football Focus has graded him as one of the worst middle linebackers in the NFL. His stats are empty, which must change for this group to become more dynamic.
15. Tennessee Titans
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Outside linebackers: Derrick Morgan, Brian Orakpo
Inside linebackers: Wesley Woodyard, Avery Williamson
In an effort to boost their pass rush, the Tennessee Titans splurged on edge-rusher Brian Orakpo. This is a potentially brilliant move, as he has been excellent when healthy. But that’s the thing with Orakpo: He has struggled with injuries throughout his career.
If the Titans can keep Orakpo on the field, their opposition will hate dealing with him and Derrick Morgan. The latter hasn’t been good enough to be the primary pass-rusher in his career, averaging 6.5 sacks the last three years; however, He is good enough to take pressure off Orakpo and work off his playmaking.
The inside linebacker spots were an issue in 2014. Wesley Woodyard and Avery Williamson are solid talents but weren’t the most effective as run-stoppers. Woodyard especially must get better at finishing plays, as he missed 14 tackles, per PFF.
14. Washington Redskins
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Outside linebackers: Ryan Kerrigan, Trent Murphy, Preston Smith
Inside linebackers: Keenan Robinson, Perry Riley
The Washington Redskins could be building a special linebacker unit from the outside in. Adding rookie Preston Smith as a pass-rusher was a solid move, as he has the size (6'5", 271 lbs) and athleticism to become an effective rotation player. He’ll join a great edge-rusher in Ryan Kerrigan and another effective one in Trent Murphy.
The inside linebacker position needs to see some growth in 2015, though. Keenan Robinson and Perry Riley combined to miss 17 tackles, per PFF. That’s far too many moving forward.
This is a good group that can continue to rise, though. These players are young and talented. Washington should keep developing the talent it has on the roster and try to create something special.
13. New Orleans Saints
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Outside linebackers: Junior Galette, Anthony Spencer, Hau’oli Kikaha
Inside linebackers: David Hawthorne, Stephone Anthony, Dannell Ellerbe
Depending on the status of Junior Galette, the New Orleans Saints’ linebacker group could either fall in the top 10 or be a bottom-five unit. Since there’s been no word on any punishment for his conduct, we’ll stay optimistic that he is going to play. He’s certainly a game-changer for the Saints.
Next to Galette are rookie Hau’oli Kikaha and veteran Anthony Spencer. The latter was a buy-low signing who could pay off, but it’s impossible to bank on him contributing much. Kikaha was an accomplished pass-rusher in the Pac-12 and should make an early impact in the NFL.
Inside linebackers David Hawthorne, Stephone Anthony and Dannell Ellerbe provide the team with a mix of athleticism and depth. Hawthorne was a decent starter last year, but the athletic Anthony could be an explosive playmaker in this front seven. Like Spencer, Ellerbe could end up being a steal acquisition.
12. Minnesota Vikings
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Outside linebackers: Anthony Barr, Chad Greenway
Inside linebackers: Eric Kendricks
Over the last two draft classes, the Minnesota Vikings have added two serious talents at linebacker. In 2014, they nabbed outside linebacker Anthony Barr in the first round. Eric Kendricks was their 2015 second-rounder, which was a steal in itself.
Together, Barr and Kendricks promise a bright future for this depth chart. Their speed and intelligence offer elite potential. Coach Mike Zimmer will enjoy working with this pair for the foreseeable future.
Weak-side linebacker Chad Greenway is the weak link of the group. He missed a whopping 15 tackles in 2014 and was graded negatively in run defense and pass coverage by PFF. There are not many positives to his game.
11. Cleveland Browns
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Outside linebackers: Paul Kruger, Barkevious Mingo, Armonty Bryant, Nate Orchard
Inside linebackers: Karlos Dansby, Craig Robertson, Christian Kirksey
Despite dealing with injuries all along the defensive line, the Cleveland Browns saw great production from their linebackers in 2014. It started with 2013 free-agent signing Paul Kruger, who had 30 quarterback hurries and 11 sacks. Add in 2015 draft pick Nate Orchard, and this is an intriguing group.
Outside linebackers Barkevious Mingo and Armonty Bryant are valuable role players as well. Mingo hasn’t been an effective pass-rusher, but he is a great run defender. Bryant can play along the defensive line and at linebacker, offering solid pass-rush prowess.
Inside linebacker features good talent too. Karlos Dansby continues to be a highly productive player and is one of the better 3-4 inside linebackers in the NFL. His likely starting partner, Craig Robertson, is an under-the-radar player in the league. He’s been effective two out of three seasons in his career, and he is looking to continue that momentum.
10. San Francisco 49ers
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Outside linebackers: Aldon Smith, Aaron Lynch, Ahmad Brooks, Eli Harold
Inside linebackers: NaVorro Bowman, Michael Wilhoite, Philip Wheeler
A year ago, it would have been shocking to think the San Francisco 49ers would rank anywhere but No. 1 on this list. But a Patrick Willis retirement and a torn ACL for NaVorro Bowman will put a damper on things quickly. Nonetheless, this is a high-ceiling group entering 2015.
When healthy, Bowman is the premier middle linebacker in the NFL. There is some room for debate there, but his tape stands out above the rest. Next to Bowman will either be Michael Wilhoite or Philip Wheeler. Wilhoite played well in relief last season but was somewhat overmatched in the run game. Wheeler should only be depth at this point in his career.
Outside linebacker is where the real intrigue is. If Aldon Smith is back to his top form, he’s one of the best playmakers at the position. But he hasn’t been that guy for two seasons. Can he regain his elite status?
9. Kansas City Chiefs
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Outside linebackers: Justin Houston, Tamba Hali, Dee Ford
Inside linebackers: Derrick Johnson, Ramik Wilson, James-Michael Johnson, Josh Mauga
As far as the top pass-rushers in the NFL, the Kansas City Chiefs have one of the most dynamic duos of all. Justin Houston and Tamba Hali are terrors off the edge, forcing bad decisions via pressure. They mask many of the few weaknesses that the Chiefs have on defense.
The depth behind Houston and Hali isn’t good or at least not yet. Dee Ford showed almost nothing as a rookie, which is worrisome for the 2014 first-rounder. The outlook at inside linebacker could be just as bleak.
It all hinges on the health of Derrick Johnson. The former Pro Bowler is an impact player when on the field, but 2014 was cut short by an early-season Achilles’ tear. Without Johnson in the mix, the depth at inside linebacker is unimpressive.
8. Buffalo Bills
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Outside linebackers: Nigel Bradham, Jerry Hughes, Randell Johnson
Inside linebackers: Preston Brown
Somewhat lost in the Buffalo Bills’ deep and talented defense are their two best linebackers. Both Nigel Bradham and Preston Brown had a solid 2014 campaign as full-time starters. Bradham especially opened eyes as a versatile, three-down linebacker.
With Brown starting at middle linebacker and Bradham on the strong side, the Bills have only one question mark. Rex Ryan’s defense is versatile, so Jerry Hughes will likely play more contain-coverage like a linebacker.
If Mario Williams and Hughes were standing up, this would be a top-three unit. Ryan will surely use that formation at times, but we’re working off Ourlads’ depth chart, which doesn’t reflect that scenario.
7. Detroit Lions
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Outside linebackers: DeAndre Levy, Kyle Van Noy
Inside linebackers: Stephen Tulloch
For the Detroit Lions’ defense to continue being one of the best in the NFL, the linebacker group must continue its excellence. The emergence of DeAndre Levy and Stephen Tulloch over the last few seasons has helped the Lions become a defense-first team that is difficult to move the ball against. Tulloch, recovering from injury, will be a huge addition back to the team in 2015.
Levy was deserving of an All-Pro nod in 2014 from his massive jump in effectiveness. It seemed as if he was involved in every play within 15 yards of the line of scrimmage. His 121 tackles help illustrate his ability to cover distance.
Another reason why this group is so highly ranked is the outlook for Kyle Van Noy. The projected starting strong-side linebacker has the speed, size and tackling prowess needed to be an above-average player for the Lions defense.
6. Denver Broncos
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Outside linebackers: Von Miller, DeMarcus Ware, Shane Ray
Inside linebackers: Brandon Marshall, Danny Trevathan
The Denver Broncos boast one of the more talented defensive fronts in the NFL. Led by Von Miller, Denver’s linebacker depth chart is impressive and dangerous for opposing offenses. This is a unit capable of shutting down the run and pass.
Complementing Miller are DeMarcus Ware and Shane Ray. Ware’s resume speaks for itself, but he continues to add impressive seasons to it. He added 10 sacks in 2014 at 32 years old, showing no sign of slowing down.
Inside linebacker Brandon Marshall is one of the most underrated players at the position in the league. He’s a stud against the run and pass, giving the Broncos one of the best inside-out tandems in the league. If Danny Trevathan returns healthy in 2015, then this might be the best group in the NFL.
5. New England Patriots
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Outside linebackers: Jamie Collins, Dont’a Hightower
Inside linebackers: Jerod Mayo
Like many other teams on this ranking, the New England Patriots have one of their best linebackers coming off a major injury. Nevertheless, they have retained one of the most talented units in the league. The trio of Jamie Collins, Dont’a Hightower and Jerod Mayo is not only punishing but effective in all facets of the game.
The growth of Collins into a quality run defender and capable coverage linebacker is noteworthy. He’s fulfilling his physical potential as quickly as the Patriots could have hoped. His versatility is a weapon for Bill Belichick.
Hightower and Mayo are plus run defenders. In just 343 snaps in 2014, Mayo had a ridiculous 19 run stops. Had he played a full workload, he was on pace to lead the league in run stops, per PFF. If he returns healthy, this could be the top unit in the NFL.
4. Carolina Panthers
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Outside linebackers: Thomas Davis, Shaq Thompson, A.J. Klein
Inside linebackers: Luke Kuechly, David Mayo
It was a somewhat surprising decision when the Carolina Panthers selected linebacker Shaq Thompson in the first round of the 2015 NFL draft. Not because he wasn’t worthy of the pick, but because the Panthers invested another resource into an already-strong position. Now, they have one of the best units in the NFL.
Led by Luke Kuechly, the Panthers can throw a variety of looks at opponents. He is known for his massive tackle totals and great instincts against the run, but he’s a solid player in coverage as well. It’s quite amazing he’s just 24 years old and already this good.
Carolina has limitless possibilities at outside linebacker as well. Both Thompson and Thomas Davis are elite coverage talents. Their ability to chase down ball-carriers or play in coverage on slot receivers and tight ends makes this unit unique because there really is no weak side to the defensive alignment.
3. Seattle Seahawks
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Outside linebackers: Bruce Irvin, K.J. Wright
Inside linebackers: Bobby Wagner
The Seattle Seahawks defense works like a fine Swiss watch. Every level of the defense feeds off one another in unison, creating havoc for opposing offenses on a weekly basis. The Seahawks simply have too many playmakers all over the field for the opposition to easily overcome their talent and scheme.
With Bobby Wagner as the man in the middle, the Seahawks can do many things with their speedy linebacker group. His ability to play in coverage but also be an impact run-stuffer highlights his value to this team.
The Seahawks have two plus outside linebackers as well. Irvin’s pass-rush ability and growth in the run game are dangerous development. He had six sacks and pressured the quarterback 17 times in 297 pass-rush opportunities, per PFF. Wright complements this well by performing well as a run defender and in pass coverage.
2. Baltimore Ravens
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Outside linebackers: Terrell Suggs, Elvis Dumervil, Courtney Upshaw, Za’Darius Smith
Inside linebackers: C.J. Mosley, Daryl Smith
To help build the physical brand of football the Baltimore Ravens love to play, the linebacker unit has been instrumental in setting the tone. It doesn’t matter the game or situation—opponents know they’re in for a long, tough game against the Ravens. It’s a mindset that has helped this franchise win two Super Bowls.
At outside linebacker, the Ravens have two great pass-rushers. Both Terrell Suggs and Elvis Dumervil have speed and power to defeat the tackle they line up against. The duo combined for a whopping 33 sacks in 2014 alone.
The Ravens boast as much talent on the inside, as well. Second-year linebacker C.J. Mosley has quickly established himself as one of the better young playmakers at the position. Veteran Daryl Smith provides a stout run presence, as well as an effective delayed blitzer.
1. Philadelphia Eagles
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Outside linebackers: Connor Barwin, Brandon Graham, Marcus Smith
Inside linebackers: Mychal Kendricks, Kiko Alonso, DeMeco Ryans, Jordan Hicks
The Philadelphia Eagles rebuilt their defense this offseason, adding team speed and overall talent across the board. The result of a trade with the Buffalo Bills netted them linebacker Kiko Alonso. Now, the Eagles have the best linebacker depth chart in the NFL.
Between Connor Barwin and Brandon Graham, the Eagles have a versatile and dangerous pair of pass-rushers. Graham was a breakout performer in 2014 after notching 5.5 sacks and 39 quarterback hurries as a part-time player, per PFF. Now in a full-time role, those numbers should jump. Barwin was excellent in 2014, totaling 14.5 sacks.
The Eagles have three starting-quality inside linebackers to complement their pass-rushers. Adding Alonso to the mix gives this defense one of the fastest, most dynamic groups in the NFL. He’ll join the talented Mychal Kendricks and consistent DeMeco Ryans in the NFL’s best linebacker group.
All stats used are from Sports-Reference.com.
Ian Wharton is an NFL Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report.
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