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The Grueling Truth - Where Legends Speak / The Grueling Truth's Top 10 Sports Lists / Top 10 Cincinnati Bengals Linebackers of All-Time

Top 10 Cincinnati Bengals Linebackers of All-Time

Publish Date: 01/20/2025
Fact checked by: Simon Briffa

 

10. Al Beauchamp

Al Beauchamp joined the Cincinnati Bengals during their inaugural season in 1968 as a fourth-round draft pick. Known for his incredible speed and agility, Beauchamp excelled at covering receivers and providing solid support in run defense. His hard work and dedication to his craft made him a key component of the early Bengals defensive unit. Although he did not receive many accolades, Beauchamp’s steady contributions to the team’s success should not be overlooked.

Video: Al Beauchamp On Paul Brown & The Impact Of HBCU Players In The NFL | Old School Scribe Podcast

Al Beauchamp On Paul Brown & The Impact Of HBCU Players In The NFL | Old School Scribe Podcast

9. Dhani Jones

Originally signed by the Bengals in 2007, Dhani Jones quickly became a fan favorite due to his outgoing personality and exceptional performance on the field. As a leader both on and off the field, Jones demonstrated a high football IQ and an ability to be in the right place at the right time. His skill in diagnosing plays and effectively communicating with teammates made him an invaluable member of the Cincinnati defense. Although he may have been absent from major award lists, Jones’s impact on the Bengals’ defensive culture is still highly respected.

Video: OBI Special: Interview with Dhani Jones

OBI Special: Interview with Dhani Jones

8. James Francis

Initially drafted in the first round of the 1990 NFL Draft, James Francis quickly impacted the Cincinnati Bengals’ defense. With a unique blend of speed, power, and agility, Francis excelled as a linebacker, consistently making momentum-changing plays through bone-crushing tackles and timely interceptions. His natural athleticism and relentless work ethic made him a formidable opponent for opposing offenses during his time with the team. His remarkable abilities on the field will be long remembered and admired by Bengals fans.

  • PFWA All-Rookie Team 1990
Video: Legendary Baylor Linebacker James Francis joins SicEm365 Radio 10-27-2020

Legendary Baylor Linebacker James Francis joins SicEm365 Radio 10-27-2020

7. Vontaze Burfict

Originally signed as an undrafted free agent in 2012, Vontaze Burfict quickly established himself as a dominant presence on the Cincinnati Bengals’ defense with his punishing hits and relentless intensity. Known for his physical and hard-nosed style of play, Burfict has been a formidable force at the linebacker position, consistently causing chaos for opposing offenses. His outstanding performances earned him a Pro Bowl selection in 2013. With undeniable talent and a fierce competitive spirit, Burfict has rightfully earned his place among the Bengals’ all-time greats.

  • Pro Bowl 2013
  • NFL Combined Tackles Leader 2013
Video: Vontaze Burfict Dirty Plays and Moments Compilation

Vontaze Burfict Dirty Plays and Moments Compilation

6. Takeo Spikes

During his tenure with the Bengals, he played 79 out of a possible 80 games, missing only one to attend his father’s funeral. Over the course of his five-year career with the Bengals, he led the team in solo and total tackles four times. After the 2002 season, he requested a trade and got his wish, becoming a Buffalo Bill.

Video: TKO - Takeo Spikes Career Highlights

TKO – Takeo Spikes Career Highlights

5. Logan Wilson

In 2020, the Bengals selected Wilson in the third round of the draft. Since then, he has emerged as one of the top linebackers in the NFL and plays a crucial role in Cincinnati’s defense. With 11 career interceptions, he holds the record for the most by any linebacker since entering the league in 2020. Wilson has led the Bengals in tackles for the past three regular seasons, achieving a career-high of 135 tackles in 2023. Additionally, in 2023, he recorded four interceptions, four tackles for loss, and nine passes defended. He is one of only two NFL players to have at least 10 interceptions, five sacks, and five forced fumbles since the start of the 2020 season. Of course, his 2024 season was cut short and may have been one of the reasons why the Bengals defense was so bad. Wilson has the potential to make a run at the top of this list if he stays in Cincy.

Video: Logan Wilson 2023 Season Highlights

Logan Wilson 2023 Season Highlights

4. Brian Simmons

Brian Simmons joined the Bengals in 1998 as a first-round draft pick and quickly established himself as a key player on the team due to his versatility in playing multiple linebacker positions. Known for his ability to diagnose offensive plays, Simmons was effective at shutting down running plays and applying pressure on quarterbacks with his quickness and intelligence. His well-rounded skill set enabled him to make crucial plays in critical situations, making him an essential part of the Bengals’ defense. Although he did not receive individual awards, his consistent and reliable presence made him a fan favorite and a vital contributor throughout his career in Cincinnati.

  • Cincinnati Bengals 40th All-Anniversary Team
Video: The Silent Assassin - Brian Simmons Career Highlights

The Silent Assassin – Brian Simmons Career Highlights

3. Jim LeClair

The Cincinnati Bengals drafted Jim LeClair in the third round of the 1972 NFL Draft and quickly became a key player on the team’s defense throughout the 1970s. With his impressive stature and relentless tackling abilities, LeClair excelled as a run-stopper, making it challenging for opposing running backs. His leadership and outstanding skills earned him a Pro Bowl selection in 1976, along with the admiration and respect of the Bengals’ fan base. As a true defensive stalwart, LeClair remains one of the most significant figures in the franchise’s history.

  • Pro Bowl 1976
  • Cincinnati Bengals 50th All-Anniversary team
Video: 1976 Browns at Bengals Game 8

1976 Browns at Bengals Game 8

2. Bill Bergey

Bill Bergey, a second-round draft pick in 1969, played a crucial role in establishing the Cincinnati Bengals’ early defensive success. With his excellent timing and ability to fend off blockers, Bergey consistently positioned himself in the middle of key plays, making essential tackles and breaking up passes. His outstanding performance earned him a Pro Bowl selection in 1970, solidifying his status as one of the standout players on the rising Bengals franchise. Although his time with the Bengals was relatively short, Bergey’s significant contribution to the team’s defensive foundation will always be remembered.

  • AFL Defensive Rookie of the Year 1969
  • Cincinnati Bengals 50th Anniversary Team
  • Pro Bowl 1969
Video: Bill Bergey passes away at 79

Bill Bergey passes away at 79

1. Reggie Williams

Reggie Williams was a talented defensive player who had an impressive 14-year career with the Cincinnati Bengals, starting as a third-round draft pick in 1976. Known for his instinctive and aggressive style of play, Williams quickly gained recognition for his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks and ball carriers. His ability to deliver impactful tackles and make crucial plays in important moments earned him two trips to the Pro Bowl in 1981 and 1982. Additionally, he played a significant role in the team’s appearance in Super Bowl XVI. Williams left a lasting legacy both on and off the field, and his time with the Bengals will always be remembered. The Bengals need to get Mr. Williams in the Ring of Honor, ASAP!

  • 1986 NFL Man of the Year
  • 1976 NFL All-Rookie Team
  • Whizzer White BFL Man of the Year 1985
  • 2-Time Pro Bowler
  • Sports Illustrated Sports Person of the Year
  • Cincinnati Bengals 50th Anniversary Team
Video: Cincinnati Bengals Weekly Show: Guest Bengals Legend Reggie Williams talks Super Bowl

Cincinnati Bengals Weekly Show: Guest Bengals Legend Reggie Williams talks Super Bowl

 

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