Top Five Free Agent Linebackers Available

The heart and soul of a defensive unit is the linebacking corp. These are the hard-nosed players who call the plays and make sure everyone has their assignments. A defense cannot run like a well oiled machine without standout play by your linebackers. So for teams looking to upgrade at that position this free agency, who are the top available options?

• Mario Williams: Once again, Mario Williams tops the list.  Williams made the jump from defensive end to outside linebacker this past season and, before he went down with an injury, was very dominant. He was able to record a sack in all 5 games that he played last season.

• Curtis Lofton: After leading the team in tackles for the past three seasons, and finishing fifth in the league, it looks like Curtis Lofton is in position to make the big bucks this offseason.

• D’qwell Jackson: Jackson would be higher on the list, but he suffered back-to-back pectoral injuries in 2009 and 2010. He did have a very strong season in 2011, but the question remains if he will be able to stay on the field in 2012 and beyond. If healthy, Jackson has all of the ability to take a defensive unit to the next level.

• Stephen Tulloch: After sigining a one-year deal with the Detroit Lions last offseason, he made his impact felt immediately. Tulloch also brought a veteran leadership to the locker room. He should be in line to sign a long-term deal for a team looking to add a solid linebacker.

• Anthony Spencer: He is a very capable run defender, and knows how to get to the quarterback. His level of play might be raised, because he plays opposite DeMarcus Ware, but he could also be anxious to get out of Ware’s shadow and shine on his own. Spencer is a candidate to receive the franchise tag in Dallas, but if he hits the free agent market, he should receive a lot of interest.

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