NFL's Best Linebackers for 2024

In the latest rankings of NFL linebackers, continuity reigns supreme, with nine players maintaining their positions from last year, including the top three in the same order. The difficulty for younger players to penetrate the top 10 is evident, as none are still on their rookie contracts, with Patrick Queen, at 25, being the youngest. As the season approaches, the focus will shift to evaluating the best players across other positions. San Francisco's Fred Warner stands out as a three-time All-Pro and a pivotal leader in one of the league's top defenses. Since entering the league in 2018, Warner has amassed 765 tackles, ranking fourth overall, showcasing his significant impact on team performance. His influence is particularly felt by teams like the Chicago Bears, who still feel the absence of former linebacker Roquan Smith. New Orleans' Demario Davis continues to defy age-related expectations, leading a defense that narrowly missed a division title with a 9-8 record. Despite discussions around "inevitable decline," Davis remains durable and effective, excelling in tackles for loss, a critical yet often overlooked statistic. His leadership has been a constant through five head coaches in Tampa, solidifying his role as the heart of the defense. Meanwhile, the New York Jets' C.J. Mosley has consistently delivered impressive performances, recording at least 150 tackles in each of the past three seasons. The New York Giants have also made a strategic move by signing Bobby Okereke, a promising linebacker known for his intelligence and positioning, crucial for a young defensive unit.