25 Greatest Linebackers in NFL History Posted Feb 17, 2016 1. Lawrence Taylor: L.T. could hit like a freight train, but it was his finesse and high football IQ that helped him revolutionize the linebacker position. He is not only the greatest linebacker in NFL history, he is one of the game’s greatest players period. Taylor is one of only two defensive players in the history of the NFL to be named NFL MVP. (Athlon Sports)