Chicago Bears: 15 greatest linebackers of all time

Perhaps the most underrated pass rusher on the Bears throughout this century, Lance Briggs was a fan favorite who made many memorable plays for Chicago on Sundays.

A third-round pick in 2003, Briggs quickly emerged as one of the best outside linebackers in the NFL during his time. With 13 starts his rookie season, Briggs would total just 78 tackles and five tackles for loss.

However, beginning in 2004, Briggs would post 100 or more tackles for six straight seasons. He’d also make the Pro Bowl for seven consecutive seasons from 2005 to 2011. During his time with the Bears, Briggs would redefine what it meant to be a member of the Bears.

After the conclusion of the 2007 NFL season, Briggs stated his displeasure with the Bears due to fact that he was upset over his current salary. Over the next few years, despite multiple instances of tension between Briggs and the Bears front office, Briggs would end his career in Chicago just before the start of the 2015 NFL season.

While he had his problems with the Bears organization, there was one thing that was clear whenever Briggs took the field; he would strike fear into the hearts of opponents due to his ferocious mindset and ability to get after the quarterback.

With 1,173 tackles, 15 sacks, 19 forced fumbles and 16 interceptions, Briggs may not have been the biggest, fastest or strongest guy on the field. However, his competitive spirit and love for the City of Chicago were undeniable.