NY Times Ranks 3 proCanes in Top 10 Inside LInebackers

10. Jonathan Vilma, New Orleans Saints
Without him, the Saints’ run defense is well below average.

9. David Harris, Jets
A thumper who has good lateral range against the run.

8. Bart Scott, Jets
Versatility allows him to play in constant attack mode.

7. Jerod Mayo, New England Patriots
Struggled in his second season (thanks, in part, to injuries) but was arguably the league’s best ILB as a rookie.

6. DeMeco Ryans, Houston Texans
Made more tackles near the line of scrimmage in 2009.

5. London Fletcher, Washington Redskins
Football IQ is off the charts. The more washed up he’s supposed to be, the better he seems to get.

4. Ray Lewis, Baltimore Ravens
Intelligence makes up for mild decline in athleticism.

3. Brian Urlacher, Chicago Bears
Last year, Bears found out the hard way just how valuable he is.

2. Jon Beason, Carolina Panthers
Young emotional leader who has fantastic sideline-to-sideline speed.

1. Patrick Willis, San Francisco 49ers
Improvements in coverage and awareness last season put him on another level.

Click here to order Jon Beason's or Ray Lewis' or Jon Vilma's proCane Rookie Card.



(nytimes.com)