When people think of the Chicago Bears, the first thing that comes to mind is their legacy of outstanding linebackers. From legends like Dick Butkus, Mike Singletary, Bill George, Brian Urlacher, and Lance Briggs, the Bears always seem to find the right guy at LB. Now, a new duo anchors the middle of their defense, and both players have earned spots in the top 12 of Pro Football Focus’ top 32 linebacker rankings.
Two Bears Linebackers Rank High In PFF’s Top 32 LB Rankings
Analysis of the Bears Two Linebackers
T.J. Edwards managed to squeeze in the top 10 linebackers heading into next season at nine. Edwards has secretly been GM Ryan Poles’ best free-agent signing, transforming the defense. What he lacks in pure athleticism, Edwards makes it up with elite instincts. Watching film, it’s evident he knows precisely where to be at all times, posing a challenge for opposing offenses. Since joining from the Philadelphia Eagles, Edwards has filled the void left by former Bears All-Pro Roquan Smith. Pro Football Focus (PFF) highlighted that Edwards earned a grade above 75.0 in both run defense and coverage with the Bears.
Tremaine Edmunds, the Bears major free-agent signing last season, landed a substantial four-year, $72 million deal. He is ranked 11th among the top linebackers despite experiencing a down year in his first season with the team. Unlike Edwards, Edmunds boasts exceptional physical traits, standing at 6’5″, weighing 250 pounds, and running a 4.54 40-yard dash. At 26 years old, Edmunds has already accumulated significant experience in the league, learning alongside elite linebackers like Matt Milano. Expect a bounce-back season from Edmunds.
Do the Bears Linebackers Deserve a Higher Ranking?
In T.J. Edwards’ case, he deserves more recognition. He is arguably the most underrated linebacker in the NFL and should be considered a top-five player in his position. Edwards’ ability to tackle in space and cover opposing running backs and tight ends is second to none. Additionally, NFL.com’s Kevin Patra named Edwards the Bears’ “unsung hero,” while PFF’s Thomas Valentine called him the team’s “secret superstar.”
On the other hand, Tremaine Edmunds has been a standout linebacker since he was drafted, but he faced some difficulties last season with the Bears. Despite his impressive physical attributes, Edmunds must demonstrate that his high salary was justified next season. His size, speed, and experience make him a dominant force, but he must translate these attributes into consistent on-field performance.
Outlook
The Bears are one of 11 teams with multiple linebackers on PFF’s LB list and join the New York Jets as the only two teams with two linebackers in the top 12. Letting go of Roquan Smith seemed like a major mistake by the Bears. However, replacing him with two premier LBs for only 4.5 million dollars more isn’t a bad trade-off. Not only that, but an improved defense should make their lives easier next season. It’s time for Edwards and Edmunds to prove they belong in the conversation of legendary Bears linebackers next season.
Related News: Bears Offensive Tackles Highlighted In PFF’s Top 32 OT Rankings
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