Patrick Willis: ESPN Rates Him Top Linebacker in the NFL, Decision Not Unanimous

ESPN has been doing an intriguing Power Ranking series on a weekly basis.

This week, they rated the top linebackers in the NFL. Not surprisingly, Patrick Willis ranked first amongst active linebackers.

Of the eight voters on the committee, only three ranked Willis the top linebacker. Two of the voters, Paul Kuharsky and John Clayton, voted Willis the third-best linebacker in the league.

Willis was noted for having the ability to play in any scheme, which is understandable. He runs like a gazelle and hits like a truck. Willis is one of the best pass-rushing middle linebackers in all of football and arguably the best run stopper.

The second, third and fourth-best linebackers all play outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme.

James Harrison and Demarcus Ware each drew first place votes from multiple voters, which comes as somewhat of a shock. While both are great linebackers, Harrison is not the Defensive Player of the Year he once was; Ware continues to impress, even while his team does not.

The article points to the fact that Ware might not even be playing linebacker in some schemes, but rather down in a stance.

Patrick Willis, on the other hand, would likely be an All Pro, regardless of what team and under what coach.

We are likely witnessing the prime of one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history. Unlike James Harrison, Patrick Willis has been a force since he entered the league. He doesn't play a position that should render monster statistics, but manages to do well statistically.

Clay Matthews has been solid, but who knows how effective he would be if not under the watchful eye of one of the best defensive minds in a scheme that perfectly suits his abilities.

If any of the 32 teams wanted to start a defense around a linebacker, it is hard to imagine all 32 would not select Willis.

DeMarcus Ware will likely be enshrined in Canton, but no linebacker is as gifted and rare as Willis.