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NFL Rankings: 10 Best Linebackers in the League

By Phil Watson

Dec 22, 2013; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly (59) reacts in the fourth quarter. The Panthers defeated the Saint 17-13 at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 22, 2013; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly (59) reacts in the fourth quarter. The Panthers defeated the Saint 17-13 at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 20, 2013; Kansas City, MO, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Case Keenum (7) is sacked by Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Tamba Hali (91) during the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 20, 2013; Kansas City, MO, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Case Keenum (7) is sacked by Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Tamba Hali (91) during the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports /

5. player. 124. . . Kansas City Chiefs. Tamba Hali

Tamba Hali is the other half of Kansas City’s dynamic pass-rushing duo at outside linebacker, along with Justin Houston. Hali had 11 sacks last season—the third time in his career he’s had at least 10 in a season.

Hali also forced four fumbles, had 46 tackles, broke up a pass and had an interception.

Drafted 20th overall out of Penn State by the Chiefs in 2006, Hali has been picked for three straight Pro Bowls.

Hali came into training camp with big expectations this year.

“What happened in the past, you can’t do anything about it, we just have to build on it,” Hali told the Kansas City Star. “Coming out here and working hard and listening to our coaches. They’re putting us in this position to have success again.”

In eight seasons, Hali has 73½ sacks, including a career-high 14½ in 2010, the last year he was not named to the Pro Bowl.

Next: The Standout in Tampa

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