Commanders' not-so-silent enforcer finally gets the recognition fans demanded

Throughout the Washington Commanders' magical 2024 season, arguably none of the team's new additions — aside from quarterback Jayden Daniels, of course — endeared himself to fans more than linebacker Frankie Luvu.

The veteran hard-hitter signed as a free agent after three seasons with the New York Jets and three more with the Carolina Panthers. It's safe to say that Luvu's impact was immediate.

He recorded a career-high eight sacks while emerging as the emotional heartbeat of the Commanders' defense. Luvu was named a second-team All-Pro for his efforts and propelled himself into a franchise cornerstone.

Commanders' Frankie Luvi finally getting recognized among the NFL's elite

Luvu could be considered a breakout performer last year, but now, he's no longer flying under the radar. That's proven by the respect he received on ESPN's list of the top 10 off-ball linebackers in the NFL.

Jeremy Fowler's article, part of a series by ESPN for each position, ranks players based on input from league executives, coaches, and scouts. In this edition, focused on the linebacker group, Washington received some prime recognition.

Luvu, who had never previously been ranked on this list, vaulted up to the No. 5 slot behind Fred Warner, Roquan Smith, Zack Baun, and Nick Bolton. Furthermore, the ageless Bobby Wagner — also a second-team All-Pro in 2024 — earned an honorable mention.

One anonymous defensive coach said of Luvu, "He's been one of the best tone-setters in the NFL." Another coordinator remarked, "Versatile, playmaking in the run game, the pass game and with pass rush… his play style is all over the tape."

Luvu was brought to Washington as part of Adam Peters' frenzy of signings upon being named the Commanders' general manager last spring. He didn't exactly stand out as a headliner in a class that also included Wagner, Zach Ertz, and Austin Ekeler. But he proved to be the most effective veteran player that the team signed, and figures to once again occupy a major role in 2025.

The former undrafted free agent out of Washington State's impact on the field also goes far beyond his stats. He's a player who opposing fan bases love to hate, and he embraces the villain role. He inspires teammates through passionate leadership, bringing nothing but 100 percent commitment in everything he does.

If he wasn't already a cult legend in Washington, he certainly became one during the NFC Championship game when he was determined at all costs to wreak havoc on the Philadelphia Eagles' "tush push" play. Luvu picked up two intentional penalties by jumping over the line of scrimmage before the snap. This frustrating sequence to the average viewer even provoked discussions about banning the play this offseason.

Suffice it to say, the $10.3 million per year he's making is a massive bargain for the Commanders. Luvu was expected to play more of a background role in Washington. Instead, he has become one of the best linebackers in the NFL.

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