New England Patriots: The 10 greatest defensive players of all-time

5. LB Willie McGinest

12 year New England Patriots linebacker Willie McGinest gets our top 5 started. He was drafted in 1994 and became an isntant impact player. As a rookie he tallied 4.5 sacks and forced 2 fumbles. In 1996 McGinest helped the Patriots reach the Super Bowl, and he undoubtedly gained some much need experience.

As a wise veteran, McGinest helped to lead the Patriots defense to three Super Bowl titles in 4 years in the early 2000’s. If it hadn’t been for him, the New England dynasty may not have ever gotten started.

McGinest finished his Patriots career with 94 sacks between the regular season and the playoffs. His 78 regular season sacks put him in 2nd place all-time with New England. McGinest is also in the top 10 in tackles.

4. LB Tedy Bruschi

Second on the Patriots all-time tackles list is linebacker Tedy Bruschi with 675. He’s also 10th with 30.5 sacks.

Bruschi became a Patriots linebacker two years after Willie McGinest, and those two along with Ted Johnson formed a formidable linebacking corps.

Tedy was the heart of the later teams, as he also won three Super Bowls in four seasons. The highlight of his interception in the snow against the Miami Dolphins is one that is always on repeat around Foxboro. Bruschi was the picture perfect image of what a New England Patriots player should be. He was all heart, hustle, and effort. Bruschi never complained when he was dealt a poor hand, like his stroke. He simply bounced back, and aimed to continue on.

Bruschi helped Bill Belichick define what the Patriots way is.