Best LBs In The NFL: Has Fred Warner Been Dethroned As League's Best Linebacker?

Fred Warner’s status as the NFL’s top linebacker is the focus heading into the 2026 season after he returned from an ankle injury that ended his 2025 campaign early. The rankings evaluate the 10 best linebackers in the league, with Warner, a four-time first-team All-Pro, receiving first-place votes alongside Detroit Lions’ Jack Campbell and Baltimore Ravens’ Roquan Smith. The piece sets up matchups and storylines for linebackers at each spot, including Carolina’s focus on improving takeaways in defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero’s first year, and Jacksonville’s Lloyd arriving via a three-year, $42 million deal after five interceptions in a Pro Bowl season. It also highlights Kansas City’s Willie Gay? and particularly Kenneth? (as described) plus other top candidates as teams prepare for new roles.