41.   The rookie linebacker John Mobley led the Broncos in tackles against New England.

42.   The rookie linebacker was using his speed and play-making ability to contribute on special teams while learning the defense.

43.   The sight of rookie linebacker Markus Steele working with the first-team defense got to linebacker Darren Hambrick.

44.   Their defense is playing better largely because of the rapid development of the rookie linebacker Brian Urlacher.

45.   They may not ask a rookie linebacker to make all the defensive calls.

46.   To make room for Hughes on the roster, the Cowboys waived free-agent rookie linebacker Myron Smith, who has not played this year.

47.   Two rookie linebackers probably will play.

48.   Washington rookie linebacker LaVar Arrington of Penn State might get his first NFL start on Monday....

49.   We won our first Super Bowl in Dallas with a rookie middle linebacker.

50.   Free agent cornerback Dale Carter and rookie linebacker Al Wilson improve the defense.