American football, a game of strategy, strength, and skill, has seen numerous impressive lineups over the years. Among these, few have been as impactful and awe-inspiring as the top linebacking units. These players, their performances, and the teams they represented have left a significant stamp on the history of the NFL.
Unforgettable Linebacking Duos of the NFL
The Formidable Trio of the 2012-2013 New England Patriots
Key Players: Dont’a Hightower, Brandon Spikes, and Jerod Mayo
In the annals of the NFL, the trio of Hightower, Spikes, and Mayo stand out for two unique reasons. Firstly, all three players hail from the same conference, with their colleges being fierce rivals. Hightower’s alma mater is the University of Alabama, Spikes graduated from the University of Florida, and Mayo is a product of the University of Tennessee.
Secondly, Hightower has played for the Patriots through the 2021 season and is still part of the team, along with Mayo who transitioned to the role of the Patriots’ Linebackers Coach in 2019.
Despite their dominance, this trio didn’t secure a Super Bowl during their time together. However, Hightower’s crucial sack on Matt Ryan during the Patriots’ legendary 28-3 comeback against the Atlanta Falcons is a testament to their resilience.
The Revolutionary Unit of the 1975 Pittsburgh Steelers
Key Players: Jack Ham and Andy Russell
The 1975 Steelers linebacking unit was groundbreaking, being the first to feature linebackers capable of covering receivers. They were equally adept at making tackles, a trait that set them apart. This unit played a crucial role in the Steelers’ 21-17 Super Bowl win over the Dallas Cowboys.
The Nearly Perfect Trio of the 1985 Chicago Bears
Key Players: Michael Singletary, Otis Wilson, and Wilbur Marshal
The 1985 Chicago Bears is often hailed as one of the most triumphant teams in NFL history. Their near-perfect performance throughout the regular season and playoffs has led many to consider them the greatest team ever to grace the game.
The trio of Singletary, Wilson, and Marshal was instrumental in their success, with their joint efforts resulting in eight interceptions during the regular season.
The Intense Trio of the 2000 Baltimore Ravens
Key Players: Jamie Sharper, Ray Lewis, and Peter Boulware
The 2000 Baltimore Ravens’ linebacking corps, featuring Sharper, Lewis, and Boulware, was known for its intensity. Ray Lewis, in particular, was famed for his fiery entry on the field during home games, a symbol of the Ravens’ defensive prowess.
Their defense was so formidable that it resulted in three shutouts in their first six games. In the four playoff games they played, their defense conceded a mere 23 points, never allowing more than one touchdown in any game.
The Lombardi Coached Linebackers in the 1960s
Key Player: Ray Nitschke
Vince Lombardi’s teams are regarded as some of the best in NFL history, and their linebacking units were no exception. Ray Nitschke, a standout player, is considered the best Packer of all time, boasting a record of recovering 23 fumbles and 25 interceptions during his 15-year stint with the Packers.
