Middle linebacker in a 4-3 defense is one of the toughest jobs in football. It is physically demanding, as those who play the position need the size and strength to take on offensive linemen, as well as the speed to rush the passer and cover backs out of the backfield. Middle linebackers have to be big, strong, fast and tough as nails.
But linebackers who are all brawn and no brains don’t make it very far in professional football. The middle linebacker is the quarterback of the defense, making calls and adjustments before the snap to get his men in the best positions to stop the offense.