They rule the middle of the field, can take on blockers large and small, attack the quarterback, take down runners, cover receivers, and cause chaos. They are the linebackers. The best ones the game has ever seen were forces to be dealt with on virtually every snap. They had to be game-planned around by opposing offenses. Here are five of the best to ever strap on a helmet and shoulder pads.
Jack Ham
Stats: 146 games, 32 interceptions (sacks and tackles not listed)
Ham is known as one of the most technically sound linebackers to ever play the game. Roaming the field as an outside linebacker for the Steelers, Ham won Defensive Player of the Year in 1975. His speed and ability at playing angles made him a nightmare in coverage for opposing QBs, snagging 32 interceptions in his 12-year career, including playoffs.