The Los Angeles Rams have been fortunate to feature some outstanding linebackers throughout franchise history. Some became fan favorites because of their relentless tackling, while others stood out for their intelligence, speed, physical presence, or ability to lead a defense. Every era has produced linebackers with different strengths, making it nearly impossible to crown one player as the complete package.
That’s where this challenge comes in.
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Instead of debating who the greatest Rams linebacker of all time is, imagine you could build the perfect one by combining five different traits from players who have worn the horns. You only get to choose one player for each category, creating your own ideal linebacker.
There are no right or wrong answers. Whether your selections come from the Fearsome Foursome era, the Greatest Show on Turf years, the Sean McVay era, or somewhere in between, every fan’s lineup will likely look a little different.
1. Tackling
A linebacker’s primary responsibility is finishing plays. Great tackling isn’t simply about delivering a highlight-reel hit—it’s about consistency. The best linebackers break down in space, wrap up securely, prevent extra yardage, and rarely allow runners to escape.
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Would you prioritize a linebacker who rarely misses a tackle? Someone who excels in open-field situations? Or do you prefer the defender who consistently delivers momentum-changing stops near the line of scrimmage?
2. Processing / Football IQ
The position has often been described as the quarterback of the defense. Before the snap, linebackers must recognize offensive formations, communicate adjustments, diagnose blocking schemes, and anticipate where the play is heading.
Elite processing allows a linebacker to play faster than his stopwatch speed. Quick recognition often leads to quicker reactions, better positioning, and game-changing plays.
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Would your choice be someone known for preparation and instincts, or someone whose ability to read offenses always seemed one step ahead of everyone else?
3. Sideline-to-Sideline Speed
Today’s NFL places enormous demands on linebackers. They must cover running backs, chase mobile quarterbacks, defend screens, and pursue ball carriers from one boundary to the other.
Range has become one of the most valuable traits at the position. A linebacker capable of covering every inch of the field can erase explosive plays before they ever develop.
When making your selection, consider who had the closing speed, pursuit angles, and athleticism to impact virtually every play.
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4. Physicality
Some linebackers simply impose their will on an offense.
Physicality isn’t limited to delivering big hits. It includes taking on offensive linemen, shedding blocks, stopping runners in short-yardage situations, and setting the tone for an entire defense. The most physical linebackers make opponents think twice before attacking the middle of the field.
Would you rather have overwhelming strength at the point of attack, intimidating hitting power, or relentless toughness that never faded over four quarters?
5. Leadership
Every great defense needs a voice.
Leadership often extends far beyond statistics. The best linebackers organize teammates before the snap, maintain composure during adversity, and elevate the play of everyone around them. Whether they’re wearing the green-dot helmet or simply leading by example, these players become the emotional heartbeat of the defense.
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Some leaders are vocal motivators. Others earn respect through preparation, consistency, and production. Which style would you choose to anchor your perfect linebacker?
Your Picks
1. Tackling: ____________
2. Processing / Football IQ: _____________
3. Sideline-to-Sideline Speed: _________________
4. Physicality: _____________
5. Leadership: ______________
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