The Falcons feature a pair of exciting linebackers. Troy Andersen is an athletic marvel that could potentially become one of the best players at his position if the game slows down between the ears. Kaden Elliss comes over from New Orleans after a semi-breakout in 2022. He’s a versatile linebacker that has pass rush chops and is looking to establish himself among the best in the business.
However, neither were included in Jeremy Fowler of ESPN’s ‘execs, coaches, scouts’ ranking of linebackers (subscription required), but a pair of former Falcons were; below is the full list as well as honorable mentions and those who received votes:
- Fred Warner
- Roquan Smith
- Tremain Edmunds
- Matt Milano
- Devin White
- Demario Davis
- Shaquille Leonard
- Nick Bolton
- C.J. Mosley
- Dre Greenlaw
Honorable mentions: Bobby Wagner, Lavonte David, Foyesade Oluokun, Logan Wilson, Patrick Queen
Also receiving votes: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, Jordyn Brooks, De’Vondre Campbell, Jerome Baker, Shaq Thompson
Oluokun once again logged an absurd amount of tackles (128 solo) to go along with two sacks and two forced fumbles last season. He’s not flashy but is consistently one of the most productive off-ball linebackers in football.
For the second straight year, the former Yale Bulldog led the league in tackles. In his final year with the Falcons, he recorded 192 total tackles. In Jacksonville, he tallied 184 but also led his new team in tackles for loss (12) after signing a three-year, $45 million deal.
Like Foye, De’Vondre Campbell began his career in Atlanta. Unlike his former teammate, his career never really took off until he left the Falcons. His final year with the club was his best, but he put up a career year with the Packers in 2021 en route to All-Pro honors.
Hopefully, we are here next year talking about Andersen and Elliss among the best linebackers in football.
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