Backing It Up – Top Returning Linebackers of the ACC
If we think back to the great defensive units across the Atlantic Coast Conference, the linebacker position has been filled by legendary names. With this, we will compile a list of the three top returning players in this position. While the list will not include names such as D’Qwell Jackson, Mark Herzlich, Aaron Curry, or EJ Henderson, we will clarify who this trio is, and how they can better their defensive unit and program in a competitive conference. We give you our top returning linebackers of the ACC.
#3 Sean Brown – NC State
We close out the trio of top returning linebackers of the ACC with Sean Brown, a linebacker, from NC State. The Charlotte native settled into his new role as he transitioned from safety to linebacker in the 2024 season. This was a smooth one as Brown finished the season strong while adding depth to a revitalized defense.
Last season, Brown led the Wolfpack with 96 tackles [50 solo, 46 assists] in addition to his five sacks and two interceptions. This stellar play led to an honorable mention All-ACC nod while serving as team captain in Raleigh. If these stats were not impressive, Brown also forced two fumbles and recovered three, which led the ACC.
The impact of Brown reverberated throughout campus as the Wolfpack went bowling following a 6-6 regular season. In the Military Bowl, against East Carolina, Brown finished with nine tackles, five of which were solo, in the narrow loss, 26-21, to the Pirates. These two Carolina foes will meet again to begin the 2025 season, and many eyes will be on how this game turns out. Can Brown and the Wolfpack get revenge over ECU?
In closing, there are many talented players in the linebacker position around the ACC. Compiling this list of top returners in the conference took much more time and deliberation than expected. This shows the depth of this talented conference, just at the linebacker position. We will be keeping an eye on this trio to see how they can use recent individual success for the betterment of the team.
#2 Wade Woodaz – Clemson
We now travel to Clemson, South Carolina, as we find our second top ACC returning linebacker in Wade Woodaz. The senior from Tampa, Florida, brings versatility to a College Football Playoff defense that competed well in 2024. Woodaz has proven the adage of “The best ability is availability” as he has filled multiple roles for the Tigers. Last season, Woodaz started in all 12 games while compiling 83 tackles [45 solo, 38 assist], along with three sacks and one interception.
In what has become a traditionally strong defense, the ability of Woodaz to perform at a high level has been impressive to watch unfold. The schedule in conference is treacherous for teams, but starting with Georgia is brutal. This is exactly what the Tigers did last season, and Woodaz and the defense lost despite a porous offensive showing in a 37-3 defeat.
The impact and leadership of Woodaz will be on full display as the Tigers open with LSU in an eye-popping matchup. Can Clemson defensive coordinator Tom Allen draw up the plays for a Clemson win? We will soon find out. Whatever happens, we know that Woodaz is the catalyst of the plan.
#1 Kyle Louis – Pittsburgh Panthers
Kyle Louis, the junior hailing from New Jersey, opens the list of top returning linebackers of the ACC on an all-out blitz. The Pitt Panthers have an absolute missile roaming the middle of their defense. Further proof of this is the 101 tackles [45 solos, 56 assists] last season for Louis. In addition to the tackles, Louis showed an unlikely ability to roam the entire field with force He ended the season with 15.5 tackles for loss and seven sacks in what was an All-American season.
In 2024, Louis recorded four interceptions, which included a 59-yard pick-six against Syracuse. Furthermore, Louis has exhibited the ability to make a game-changing play when needed. In the GameAbove Sports Bowl, versus Toledo, Louis blocked an extra point and retained possession to return the ball for a 2-point conversion. This was the first time this had been accomplished for the Panthers since the 1990 season.
The impact of Louis on the defensive unit as well as the program is strong. As we look to the 2025 season, Louis is primed for continued successful work on the field while growing into a more seasoned player. His leadership makes him a cornerstone for the Panthers as they look to start 2025 on the winning side.
Main Image: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
