Gridiron Guardians: Top 5 Linebackers to Watch in the 2024-25 NFL Season

Linebackers are the heart of any NFL defense, blending power, speed, and intelligence to disrupt plays and dictate games. These athletes are not just tackling machines; they are strategic masterminds capable of reading offenses and delivering game-changing moments. 

 

As the 2024-25 NFL season approaches, the spotlight shines brightly on a select few who stand poised to dominate the gridiron. This season promises unmatched performances from seasoned veterans honing their craft to emerging stars ready to leave their mark. 

 

Linebackers don't just defend; they lead, inspire, and electrify fans with every bone-crunching hit and pivotal interception. Below, we’ll go through the five exceptional players—each ready to define the season and elevate the art of linebacking to new heights.

 

TJ Watt

T.J. Watt has solidified his status as one of the best linebackers in the NFL this season. Watt is now the clear frontrunner, a former Defensive Player of the Year in 2021 and a four-time finalist for the prestigious award, with T.J. Watt player odds leading the conversation at -190. His 2024 season stats reflect his unparalleled ability to impact games on multiple levels.

 

Watt has recorded 33 solo tackles, consistently stepping up in critical moments to stop opposing offenses. His 9.5 sacks place him tied for 7th in the league, showcasing his relentless ability to pressure quarterbacks. However, his league-leading five forced fumbles truly set him apart, a testament to his knack for creating game-changing plays.

 

Watt’s consistent excellence and disruptive performances make him a standout linebacker this season. He drives Pittsburgh's defensive success and sets a high bar for his peers.

 

Zack Baun

Zach Baun has solidified his position as the top linebacker in the NFL for the 2024 season, demonstrating elite performance across the board. Leading with a remarkable 89.6 overall grade, ranked second among 169 linebackers, Baun has been a force on the field. 

 

His pass rush prowess is unmatched, earning a 91.5 grade—first in his position—highlighting his ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt plays.

 

What truly sets Baun apart is his dominance in solo tackles, with 87 recorded this season, the highest among all linebackers. Adding to his accolades, he has forced four fumbles, also leading the league in this category, showcasing his knack for game-changing plays. 

 

While his run defense and coverage grades of 65.3 and 71.0 rank him 43rd and 53rd respectively, they reflect a well-rounded player capable of excelling in any defensive scenario.

 

Baun’s contributions extend to critical moments, with 52 stops and three sacks ranking him among the top in both categories. His ability to stay composed, with a low 11 missed tackles, reinforces his reliability as a defensive anchor. Zach Baun’s 2024 season is a masterclass in linebacker excellence, making him the standard against which others are measured.

 

Eric Kendricks

Eric Kendricks could be the Cowboys' most impactful off-season addition, not just for his on-field contributions but for his invaluable mentorship. Signed to a one-year deal worth up to $3.5 million, Kendricks brings nine seasons of experience, including over 1,000 tackles and 61 tackles for loss. 

 

At 32, his familiarity with Defensive Coordinator Mike Zimmer’s system, honed during seven successful seasons in Minnesota, positions him as a leader for Dallas. While Kendricks enhances the Cowboys' already talented defense, his true value lies in guiding young linebackers like Damone Clark, DeMarvion Overshown, and Marist Liufau. 

 

His deep understanding of Zimmer’s defensive approach will help these players excel, ensuring his influence extends beyond the 2024 season. Kendrick’s mentorship promises to shape the Cowboys’ linebacker corps for years, making his signing a strategic move with a lasting impact.

 

Andrew Van Ginkel

Andrew Van Ginkel has established himself as one of the most unique and versatile linebackers in the NFL this season. His ability to seamlessly transition between pass rushing, coverage, and various alignments makes him nearly impossible to compare to others. 

 

With 8.0 sacks and two pick-sixes, Van Ginkel is one of only three players in NFL history to achieve such a feat in a single season, joining legends like Terrell Suggs and Jason Taylor.

 

His dual role as a top-tier coverage player and pass rusher sets Van Ginkel apart. He leads the league in linebacker coverage snaps at 133, significantly outpacing the next closest player. Despite being frequently used in coverage, he still boasts an impressive 86.5 PFF coverage grade, demonstrating his effectiveness in a role few can replicate.

 

Van Ginkel’s versatility disrupts offensive schemes, forcing teams to adapt their blocking strategies. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores praises his growth, citing his ability to learn, evolve, and perform at an elite level in multiple roles. 

 

With his rare skill set, Van Ginkel is not just a key player for the Vikings but a standout in the entire NFL, redefining what it means to play linebacker in today’s game.

 

Robert Spillane

Robert Spillane has emerged as a reliable force in the NFL this season, showcasing his ability to impact across multiple facets of the game. Ranking 5th among linebackers with 84 solo tackles, Spillane demonstrates an elite knack for finding the ball and stopping plays in their tracks. His consistency is further highlighted by his 28 assists, placing him 12th in the league.

 

In coverage, Spillane shines with an impressive 82.8 PFF grade, ranking 14th out of 169 linebackers. His ability to limit opportunities in the passing game has made him a valuable asset to his team. While his sack count is modest at 1, Spillane contributes significantly with 38 stops, ranking 11th among linebackers and 10 pressures.

 

Despite a few challenges, including a 116.1 passer rating allowed, Spillane’s high snap count and versatility make him an integral part of his team’s defensive efforts.

 

Conclusion

The 2024-25 NFL season promises to be unforgettable, with these top linebackers leading the charge. Each player brings a unique blend of skill, leadership, and game-changing ability, redefining what it means to excel at the position. Their performances will shape games, inspire teammates, and electrify fans. Keep watching—this is their season to shine.