Luke Kuechly was the best linebacker of his generation. Now that he’s hung up his helmet and will serve the Panthers as a pro scout, it’s time to find out who will take his title.
Based on a mix of film, stats and feel, here are our top 10 linebackers in the league going into 2020.
10. Dont’a Hightower
It’s no accident that Bill Belichick has entrusted Hightower to play an important role for his defense for such a long time. Modern linebackers need to do a bit of everything and Hightower excels at most of it, especially rushing the quarterback. Last year, he posted 5.5 sacks and 13 quarterback hits to go with eight tackles for a loss. Hightower has made the Pro Bowl twice and won three rings.