If you want to build a solid front seven in MUT, you have to start with the linebacker core. Having a strong group of linebackers will not only allow you to destroy your opponent's passing game, but also give you the chance to be more flexible with the game plan. On some occasions you might execute a Cover 3 and have your linebackers protect the midfield. Or, you can execute a blitz that sends one of your linebackers straight to the quarterback.
Ultimately, having good linebackers is important in Madden 21, both online one-on-one and in Madden Ultimate Team. But who are the top MUT linebackers at Madden 21? Let's go over our picks for the best of the best, starting with the middle linebackers.
Middle linebackers
Bobby Wagner
Seahawks MLB Bobby Wagner is a Madden machine, thanks to his solid Speed (79) that allows him to perform well in zone defense packages, as well as the monstrous Hit Power attribute. The top-rated core MUT inside linebacker also has impeccable awareness (89) and game recognition, which means he should be exactly where you need him on almost any game. Wagner will cost you a bit, but he should be a strong MLB1 right off the bat, as well as a solid MLB2 once you start building your roster.
Lavonte David
Buccaneers MLB Lavonte David has the second highest OVR (86) among MUT base middle linebackers at Madden 21, behind, yes you guessed it, Bobby Wagner (88). David might not have the same punch as Wagner, but David is still a valuable middle linebacker. David has the same speed (79) as Wagner, as the Buccaneers' MLB has strong game recognition (86) and tackle (85) attributes. David should be a great addition to your MUT list.
Deion Jones
MLB Falcons Deion Jones might not have the highest OVR (83) in MUT among linebackers. In fact, he's actually Madden 21's fifth-best middle linebacker in terms of overall. However, Jones could be the base user's best middle linebacker, thanks to his speed (84) and acceleration (84). Of course, Jones 'other attributes are solid as well, but Jones' value comes from his ability to move around the pitch and cover opposing receivers. If you like quick linebackers to use with, choose Deion Jones.
Left outside linebacker
Khalil Mack
The highest-rated MUT base outside linebacker by total (87), Bears OLB Khalil Mack is a force to be reckoned with. Mack has some of the best attributes of Block Shedding (86) and Power Move (87) in Madden 21 among outside linebackers, and those ratings, combined with his speed (79), make him a tough game for opposing offensive lines. As with Bobby Wagner, Mack will cost you dearly, but his ability to rush the quarterback will help pay you back in dividends.
From Miller
Broncos LOLB Von Miller has been an outstanding linebacker in the NFL since arriving in 2011. Nine years after his first game in the NFL, Miller is still a powerful force at Madden. Miller's 80 Speed is a plus-plus, and its speed on the court can give you the flexibility to use it or send it straight to the quarterback. And with 84 Block Shedding and 85 Power Move attributes, why wouldn't you want to blitz it?
Anthony Barr
You might be surprised to see Vikings LB Anthony Barr on this list. Sitting at 78 OVR, Barr isn't in the top ten among left outside linebackers among overall ratings, and he's not even a Core Elite player. However, Barr, like Deion Jones, is an excellent user linebacker. Barr has a higher Speed attribute (80) than the other linebackers ahead of him in the overall standings, including Kyle Van Noy and TJ Watt, and his acceleration (80) isn't too bad either. Barr has his shortcomings as he's an average tackle and not a great passer. However, if you plan to use it as a user, you don't have to worry about it.
Right outside linebacker
Demario Davis
Madden Ultimate Team's top rated ROLB, Saints LB Demario Davis would be a solid addition for your MUT team. Davis's 72 Zone Coverage, 79 Speed, 81 Acceleration, and 86 Play Recognition attributes make him a solid cover linebacker. Plus, Davis's 85 Tackling and 80 Hit Power attributes aren't too bad either. If you're looking for a linebacker who could be reliable in both man and zone cover play, consider Demario Davis.
Preston Smith
Packers ROLB Preston Smith has the third-highest OVR (82) among outside linebackers, and his biggest asset is his ability to rush the quarterback. While Smith has decent running attributes (75 speeds, 81 accelerations), his 84 Power Move and 82 Pursuit attributes allow him to be a threat in the opposing team's running and passing games. If you are looking for ROLB coverage, Preston Smith may not be for you. But if you want someone to bring the heat to the other team's QB, Smith might be worth a look.
Myles Jack
Jaguars ROLB Myles Jack is one of MUT's most balanced outside right linebackers, thanks to his defensive qualities in both race and race. Jack's 80 Speed and 81 Acceleration should give you some flexibility in using it to break passes, and he's not a bad racing junkie either. The weaknesses of the Jaguars LB lie in its Pass Rush attributes (43 Power Move, 54 Finesse Move), as neither is good. But if you need a good cover linebacker who can sometimes stop the running back, Myles Jack could be your solution.
Related: Best Basic MUT Corner Corner at Madden 21
