By Darin The jersey number 59 is often synonymous with the heart and soul of an NFL defense: the unwavering leader of the linebacker corps. This number represents the versatile players who thrive in both chaos and strategy, specializing in everything from bone-jarring tackles to crucial interceptions. From Hall of Fame anchors who defined their era to modern defensive stars still shaping their legacies, the players who wore NFL jersey number 59 consistently embodied toughness and high football IQ. If you’re looking for defensive dominance, look no further than this iconic group. Get ready to explore the careers and monumental accomplishments of the best NFL players to wear 59.
Best NFL Number 59s
- Jack Ham: A key member of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ “Steel Curtain” defense, this Hall of Fame outside linebacker was known for his exceptional speed and coverage skills, earning four Super Bowl rings and six consecutive First-team All-Pro selections.
- London Fletcher: An incredibly durable and productive middle linebacker, Fletcher went undrafted but became one of the NFL’s all-time leaders in consecutive starts by a linebacker and finished his career with four Pro Bowl selections.
- Luke Kuechly: Known for his unmatched football IQ and tackling efficiency, Kuechly won Defensive Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year early in his career and was selected to seven Pro Bowls before an early retirement.
- Seth Joyner: A ferocious, hard-hitting outside linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles and others, Joyner was a three-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time First-team All-Pro known for his versatility in rushing the passer and dropping into coverage.
- Matt Blair: A dominant force for the Minnesota Vikings, Blair was a six-time Pro Bowl selection who was known for his exceptional athleticism and became one of the franchise’s most popular defensive players during the 1970s and 80s.
- John Anderson: A reliable and versatile linebacker for the Green Bay Packers for 13 seasons, Anderson retired as the team’s all-time leader in games played and was part of the 1980 Pro Bowl team.
- Mike Johnson: An imposing defensive end/outside linebacker who played primarily for the Cleveland Browns, Johnson earned a Pro Bowl nod in 1983 and was a consistent run-stopper and pass-rusher throughout the 1970s and 80s.
- Donnie Edwards: A highly productive and intelligent linebacker for the Chiefs and Chargers, Edwards totaled over 20 sacks and 20 interceptions in his career, making him one of the few players in NFL history to achieve that dual milestone.
- Vincent Brown: This Pro Bowl linebacker played primarily for the New England Patriots and was known for his leadership and consistent tackling, retiring as the Patriots’ all-time leading tackler.
- Whitney Mercilus: A consistent pass-rushing threat, Mercilus was a First-team All-Pro selection in 2016 and was known for his high sack totals and ability to disrupt opposing backfields during his tenure with the Houston Texans.
More Top Players Wearing 59
- Bob Brudzinski
- Kyle Clifton
- DeMeco Ryans
- Lonnie Warwick
- Charlie Weaver
- Charlie Hall
- Ted Washington
- Brad Dusek
- Pete Barnes
- Willie Harper
- Danny Trevathan
- Gary Spani
- Derrick Rodgers
- John Rade
- Jimmy Williams
- Gary Campbell
- Doug Swift
- John Grimsley
- Wesley Woodyard
Conclusion Paragraph
The history of jersey number 59 showcases a long tradition of defensive impact, defined by players who possessed the rare combination of athletic prowess and field vision. These athletes didn’t just fill space; they made game-changing plays that tilted the scales of victory. As the game continues to evolve, the standard of excellence set by the legends who wore 59—demanding precision, durability, and leadership—ensures that this number will always be associated with the elite defensive forces of the National Football League.
