Second-Level Enforcers: The Top 10 UFL Linebackers for the 2026 Season

As the 2026 UFL season prepares for kickoff on March 27, the linebacker position has emerged as the heartbeat of defenses across the league. In today’s version of spring football, linebackers must do far more than plug running lanes. They are asked to rush the passer, drop into coverage, spy mobile quarterbacks, and serve as the on-field quarterbacks of their defenses.

With the league undergoing structural changes—including franchise relocations and expansion teams in Columbus, Louisville, and Orlando—defensive systems have evolved to match the faster, more wide-open offensive styles dominating the UFL. The best linebackers in the league now blend athleticism with intelligence, acting as both physical playmakers and strategic leaders.

Heading into the 2026 campaign, several defenders have already established themselves as elite second-level threats, while a few rising stars look ready to break out. Based on production, leadership, and projected impact, here are the Top 10 linebackers in the UFL entering the 2026 season.

1. Pita Taumoepenu — St. Louis Battlehawks

Few defenders in spring football have been as disruptive as Pita Taumoepenu. The former Utah standout enters the 2026 season as the reigning UFL Defensive Player of the Year, and for good reason. Taumoepenu has developed into one of the most dangerous hybrid pass-rush linebackers in the league.

During the 2025 season, he led the UFL with 7.5 sacks and three forced fumbles, constantly collapsing pockets and forcing quarterbacks into mistakes. His combination of speed and power makes him extremely difficult for offensive tackles to handle one-on-one, and offensive coordinators routinely design entire protection schemes around stopping him.

But Taumoepenu’s game is about more than sacks. His relentless motor and physicality allow him to set the edge against the run, while his athleticism makes him effective dropping into short coverage zones.

For the St. Louis Battlehawks, he remains the centerpiece of a defense that has consistently ranked among the league’s best. If he continues his dominant form, Taumoepenu will again be a frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year in 2026.

2. Travis Feeney — St. Louis Battlehawks

Another key reason for the Battlehawks’ defensive dominance is veteran linebacker Travis Feeney. The former Washington Huskies star has become one of the most respected defensive leaders in the UFL.

Feeney’s value extends far beyond statistics. His football intelligence, leadership, and ability to diagnose plays allow him to consistently put teammates in the right position. In 2025 he helped anchor a St. Louis defense that allowed just 16.3 points per game, the best mark in the league.

Known for his relentless motor and tackling consistency, Feeney excels at cleaning up plays and preventing big gains. He is also highly effective in blitz packages, often sneaking through protection schemes to pressure quarterbacks.

In recognition of his leadership and professionalism, Feeney was named the 2025 UFL Sportsman of the Year, a testament to the respect he commands throughout the league.

As the veteran presence in St. Louis’ linebacker corps, Feeney serves as the defensive field general for a unit expected to contend for a championship in 2026.

3. Tavante Beckett — Orlando Storm

One of the most productive linebackers in the UFL, Tavante Beckett enters the 2026 season as the centerpiece of the Orlando Storm defense.

Beckett previously established himself as a tackling machine, leading the UFL in total tackles during the 2025 season. His speed and range allow him to track ball carriers from sideline to sideline, while his instincts enable him to quickly diagnose plays before they develop.

A two-time All-UFL selection, Beckett is also highly effective in pass coverage. Modern linebackers must defend tight ends and running backs in space, and Beckett’s athleticism makes him well suited for that role.

Orlando acquired Beckett during the league’s roster redistribution process, making him one of the most important defensive additions for the expansion franchise. As the team builds its identity, Beckett is expected to serve as the defensive leader and tone-setter.

If he replicates his previous production, Beckett could once again challenge for the league lead in tackles in 2026.

4. Kyahva Tezino — Birmingham Stallions

Few linebackers in spring football have been as consistent as Kyahva Tezino. The former San Diego State star has built a reputation as one of the league’s most dependable defenders.

Tezino has been a cornerstone of the Birmingham Stallions’ defensive success, recording nearly 100 tackles during the 2024 season and continuing to deliver high-level performances year after year.

What makes Tezino special is his ability to dominate against the run. He reads blocking schemes exceptionally well and rarely misses tackles in the open field. His physical style allows him to control the interior of the defense and prevent offenses from establishing a ground game.

Serving as the Mike linebacker, Tezino is responsible for making defensive calls and directing traffic before the snap. His leadership and communication are vital to Birmingham’s defensive structure.

Entering the 2026 season, Tezino is widely viewed as one of the top candidates for Defensive Player of the Year.

5. Willie Taylor III — Dallas Renegades

Though he often lines up as a pass-rushing linebacker, Willie Taylor III has established himself as one of the most explosive defensive playmakers in the league.

The Eastern Kentucky product broke out in 2025 with seven sacks, finishing second in the league in that category. His speed off the edge and quick first step make him a nightmare for offensive tackles.

Taylor thrives in aggressive defensive schemes where he can attack quarterbacks. In Dallas’ defensive system, he frequently lines up in multiple positions to create mismatches and confuse blocking assignments.

At just 26 years old, Taylor is entering the prime of his career. His physical traits and athleticism give him one of the highest ceilings among UFL defenders.

For the Dallas Renegades, Taylor is expected to serve as the primary pass-rushing threat and a cornerstone of their defense heading into the 2026 campaign.

6. Frank Ginda — St. Louis Battlehawks

Former USFL Defensive Player of the Year (2023) Frank Ginda remains one of the most physical linebackers in spring football.

Nicknamed a “thumper,” Ginda excels at attacking the line of scrimmage and stopping running plays before they develop. His instincts and ability to quickly diagnose plays allow him to consistently beat blockers to the point of attack.

Ginda also brings invaluable experience and toughness to the St. Louis defense. His presence alongside Feeney and Taumoepenu gives the Battlehawks one of the most formidable linebacker groups in the league.

While he may not always produce flashy statistics, Ginda’s contributions are essential to the defensive structure. His ability to control the middle of the field allows St. Louis’ defensive line to play aggressively.

With his combination of physicality and experience, Ginda continues to be one of the most reliable defenders in the UFL.

7. Donald Payne — Louisville Kings

Veteran linebacker Donald Payne brings instant credibility to the Louisville Kings, one of the league’s newest franchises.

Payne has built a reputation as one of the most productive tacklers in spring football. His ability to consistently pile up tackles makes him one of the league’s most dependable defenders.

In previous seasons, Payne demonstrated his ability to impact games with his pursuit and instincts. He rarely takes a play off and often leads his team in defensive snaps.

For Louisville, Payne will serve as the defensive leader and emotional heartbeat of the team. His experience will be crucial for a franchise looking to establish its defensive identity in its inaugural season.

Expect Payne to once again be among the league leaders in tackles in 2026.

8. Vontae Diggs — Columbus Aviators

Linebacker Vontae Diggs has quietly built one of the most well-rounded defensive resumes in the UFL.

Known for his versatility, Diggs excels in both run defense and pass coverage. His athleticism allows him to match up with tight ends and running backs, making him a valuable three-down linebacker.

Diggs also brings emotional leadership to the Columbus Aviators, helping guide the expansion team through its first season. His communication skills and football IQ allow him to quickly adapt to different defensive situations.

As a veteran defender, Diggs is expected to serve as the stabilizing presence for Columbus’ defense.

9. Storey Jackson — Columbus Aviators

Rookie linebacker Storey Jackson enters the UFL with tremendous upside. The former Liberty standout is known for his speed, range, and athleticism.

Jackson’s ability to cover ground quickly makes him a perfect fit for modern defensive schemes that emphasize versatility and mobility. Coaches believe his athletic profile could allow him to develop into one of the league’s top linebackers.

If he adapts quickly to the professional game, Jackson could become one of the best defensive rookies in the league.

10. Steele Chambers — Louisville Kings

Former Ohio State linebacker Steele Chambers brings a unique skill set to the UFL.

Originally a running back before transitioning to linebacker in college, Chambers has an exceptional understanding of offensive schemes. That background allows him to anticipate plays and react quickly.

His athleticism and tackling ability make him a promising young defender for the Louisville Kings.

If he continues developing, Chambers could emerge as one of the most exciting young linebackers in the league