Patrick Willis has been dominant in his young NFL career. Video: Rod Woodson's top 5 Middle Linebackers (AP Photo/Greg Trott)

Ray Lewis is still one of the best, even after 13 years in the NFL. Video: Rod Woodson's top 5 Middle Linebackers (AP Photo/Al Behrman)

DeMeco Ryans is one of the young guns of the Texans defense. Video: Rod Woodson's top 5 Middle Linebackers (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Jon Beason is the plug of the Panthers' defense. Video: Rod Woodson's top 5 Middle Linebackers (AP Photos/Greg Trott)

Brian Urlacher has long been the face of the Bears' defense. Bart Scott looks to make an impact for the Jets. Video: Rod Woodson's top 5 Middle Linebackers (AP Photo)