Northwestern Linebackers Anchored by Standout Duo

Wildcats' linebacker corps led by All-Big Ten performer Mac Uihlein and emerging star Braydon Brus.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 3:31pm

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Northwestern's linebacker unit was led by a two-man wrecking crew in 2025, with standout performances from veterans Mac Uihlein and Braydon Brus. Uihlein capped off his career with an All-Big Ten Third Team season, recording 100 tackles, 6 TFLs, a forced fumble and 4 interceptions. Brus also had a strong season in his first year as a starter, finishing with 81 tackles, 4.5 TFLs and 2.5 sacks. While the Wildcats' linebacker depth was a bit thin, this duo formed a formidable duo that helped anchor the defense.

Why it matters

Northwestern has consistently produced strong linebacker play, and this season was no exception. The Wildcats' ability to reload at the position is a testament to their player development, and the performances of Uihlein and Brus kept the defense competitive in the tough Big Ten.

The details

Uihlein led the team with 100 tackles, good for 10th in the Big Ten, and his 4 interceptions tied for the conference lead among linebackers. Brus was a solid complement, finishing third on the team with 81 tackles while also contributing 4.5 TFLs and 2.5 sacks. The duo combined for 181 tackles, 10.5 TFLs and 6.5 sacks, forming one of the more productive linebacker tandems in the conference.

  • Uihlein capped off his Northwestern career with his best season yet in 2025.
  • Brus started for the first time in 2025 after playing in a reserve role the previous season.

The players

Mac Uihlein

A veteran linebacker who earned All-Big Ten Third Team honors in 2025 after recording 100 tackles, 6 TFLs, a forced fumble and 4 interceptions.

Braydon Brus

A junior linebacker who emerged as a strong complement to Uihlein, finishing the season with 81 tackles, 4.5 TFLs and 2.5 sacks in his first year as a starter.

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The takeaway

Northwestern's linebacker corps was anchored by a standout duo in Uihlein and Brus, who formed one of the more productive linebacker tandems in the Big Ten. While the Wildcats' depth at the position was a bit thin, this pair's strong play helped keep the defense competitive throughout the season.