The NFL’s Top 50 Linebackers of the Modern Era

June 23, 2010   ·   Scott Wedell   ·   Jump to comments

With time to spare in the NFL offseason, I’ll take a look at the top 50 linebackers in the NFL in the modern era.
I’m only going to be looking at players drafted in 1970 or later. I personally think football before 1970 and after 1970 can be seen as two completely different games, in terms of its evolution. So while there were outstanding linebackers in previous years, like Dick Butkus and Ray Nitschke, they will not be on this list.
I’ll take into account Pro Bowls, All-Pro’s (1st and 2nd team), stats, team success, player’s success, intimidation factor, and reputation, along with many other factors to make this list.
Also note that an asterisk (*) by the players name means they are still active today.
 
Honorable Mentions
These were the players who were great players, but not quite good enough to be placed inside the top 50.
James Farrior* (Jets/Steelers): Two-time Pro Bowler, one-time 1st Team All-Pro, one-time 2n...

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