Ranking the top 5 linebackers in the NFL for the 2023 season

SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 3: Fred Warner #54 and Emmanuel Moseley #4 of the San Francisco 49ers tackle Chris Carson #32 of the Seattle Seahawks for a loss at Levi's Stadium on October 3, 2021 in Santa Clara, California. The Seahawks defeated the 49ers 28-21. (Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images) /

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Defensive schemes are constantly changing in the NFL. An influx of spread offenses causes coordinators to rely on players with high motors. They must cover sideline to sideline, make adjustments and lead the unit to victory. These men are linebackers, and they are the heart of the defense.

Becoming a hybrid athlete requires various skills. Speed, strength, and intelligence are only a few qualities that make a qualified field general. When the game is on the line, here are the linebackers you want on the field.

Philadelphia Eagles linebacker T.J. Edwards (57) at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

NFL Linebacker #5 T.J Edwards

Stifling defense led the Eagles to Super Bowl LVII. Jonathan Gannon’s depth chart was filled with playmakers waiting for their chance. His unit finished the season with exceptional accolades. They ranked first in defensive and pass rush categories – haunting opposing quarterbacks.

T.J. Edwards made the most of his opportunity. He ranked third in snaps (1,183), 8th in pass rush, and 10th in defensive ratings. Edwards also snatched three interceptions, contributing to a decent PFF coverage rating (78.4). He’s the new inside linebacker for the Chicago Bears and will make an entrance during his first year.

NFL Linebacker #4 Lavonte David

Covering ground is a skill that only elite linebackers possess. It allows them to make plays against the pass and run. Lavonte David is known to track down ballhandlers with urgency. He ran a 4.65 forty-yard dash and it shows on the field.

Lavonte David is the definition of a hybrid linebacker. He ranked fifth in PFF’s defensive rating (85.1) and fourth in coverage rating (88) last season. Mike Chiurco’s defense can rely on him in the clutch – earning an invitation to this list.

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