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When it comes to middle linebackers in the NFL, there have been some truly dominant players throughout the history of the league. These players have been the quarterbacks of their defense, able to read the opposing offense and make quick decisions to stop the run and drop back into coverage. Here are the top 5 middle linebackers in NFL history:
Top 5 Middle Linebackers of All-Time
1 Ray Lewis
Lewis is widely considered one of the greatest middle linebackers of all time. He played for the Baltimore Ravens for 17 seasons and recorded 2,061 tackles and 41.5 sacks in his career. He was a 13-time Pro Bowler and was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year twice. Lewis is known for his intensity, leadership, and ability to make big plays in crucial moments. He was also a key contributor in the Ravens' Super Bowl wins in 2000 and 2012.
2 Mike Singletary
Singletary played for the Chicago Bears from 1981 to 1992 and recorded 1,488 tackles and 19 sacks in his career. He was a 10-time Pro Bowler and was once named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Singletary is known for his intensity, leadership, and ability to make big plays in crucial moments. He was also a key contributor to the Bears' Super Bowl win in 1985.
3 Ray Nitschke
Nitschke played for the Green Bay Packers from 1958 to 1972 and recorded 1,020 tackles and 20 sacks in his career. He was a five-time Pro Bowler and was once named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Nitschke is known for his toughness, physicality, and ability to make big plays in crucial moments. He was a leader of the Packers' defense and was a key contributor in their Super Bowl wins in Super Bowl I & II.
4 Jack Lambert
Lambert played for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1974 to 1984 and recorded 1,479 tackles and 28.5 sacks in his career. He is a six-time Pro Bowler and a key part of the "Steel Curtain". Lambert is known for his physicality, toughness, and intelligence on the field. He was also a key contributor to the Steelers' Super Bowl wins in 1974 and 1979.
5 Dick Butkus
Butkus played for the Chicago Bears from 1965 to 1973 and recorded 1,020 tackles and 22 sacks in his career. He was a five-time All-Pro and was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year twice. Butkus is known for his physicality, toughness, and ability to intimidate opposing offenses. He is considered one of the most feared and intimidating players to ever play the game.
All of these players have left an indelible mark on the NFL and have set the standard for future middle linebackers to follow. Their dominance on the field, their statistics, and their awards are a testament to their greatness. They are true legends of the game, and their legacies will be remembered for years to come.
