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ESPN conducted a comprehensive poll involving executives, players, and coaches to determine the best off-ball linebackers in the NFL.
The survey, part of ESPN’s 2023 NFL season preview, was carried out by Jeremy Fowler and involved league executives, coaches, scouts, and players who contributed to ranking the top 10 players at each of the 11 different positions, spanning from quarterback to cornerback and all positions in between.
Rankings For: Off-the-ball Linebackers, Defensive Tackles, Edge Rushers, Cornerbacks, Safeties, Tight Ends, Running Backs, Offensive Tackles, Guards/Centers, Quarterbacks, Wide Receivers
The process of ranking linebackers proved to be particularly challenging, leaving some evaluators feeling uninspired. Many believed that the players were essentially interchangeable after the first two or three spots.
The poll highlighted the high level of productivity exhibited by linebackers throughout the league, making the voting process even more challenging.
Here is the list of the top 10 off-ball linebackers according to ESPN’s poll:
- Fred Warner – San Francisco 49ers
- Roquan Smith – Baltimore Ravens
- Tremaine Edmunds – Chicago Bears
- Matt Milano – Buffalo Bills
- Devin White – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Demario Davis – New Orleans Saints
- Shaquille Leonard – Indianapolis Colts
- Nick Bolton – Kansas City Chiefs
- C.J. Mosley – New York Jets
- Dre Greenlaw – San Francisco 49ers
In addition to the top 10, several linebackers received honorable mentions for their exceptional performances:
- Bobby Wagner – Seattle Seahawks
- Lavonte David – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Foyesade Oluokun – Jacksonville Jaguars
- Logan Wilson – Cincinnati Bengals
- Patrick Queen – Baltimore Ravens
Furthermore, several players received votes and were recognized for their skills and potential impact:
- Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah – Cleveland Browns
- Jordyn Brooks – Seattle Seahawks
- De’Vondre Campbell – Green Bay Packers
- Jerome Baker – Miami Dolphins
- Shaq Thompson – Carolina Panthers
As the NFL’s 2023 season approaches, these outstanding off-ball linebackers are expected to play crucial roles within their respective teams.
Their exceptional skills, leadership qualities, and defensive prowess will undoubtedly contribute to the success of their organizations, while adding excitement and intensity to the game.