2025 Army Linebacker’s Continue The Tradition
As a follow-up to yesterday’s TBT article … “Is Army West Point The New “Linebacker U?”, we bring you Part II or should we say the version of former Army Linebackers and their current NFL status.
But we also look ahead at present day Black Knights linebackers and the NFL potential.
Over the past two seasons, Army Linebacker Alumni have experienced continued success at various levels in the NFL. Here is an update of all Army Linebackers currently on NFL rosters:
- Jimmy Ciarlo, Buffalo Bills (Active Roster) – Ciarlo was picked up by the Bills in the offseason after he was waived by the Jets. Two weeks ago, after the Bills experienced some injuries, Ciarlo was promoted to the active roster where he has already made an impact on special teams. Head Coach Sean McDermott has been impressed with Ciarlo and loves his attitude and effort.
- Jon Rhattigan, Las Vegas Raiders (Active Roster) – like Ciarlo, Rhattigan was recently let go from the Carolina Panthers’ practice squad. He was picked up by the Raiders and promoted to their active roster almost immediately.
- Cole Christiansen, Kansas City Chiefs (Practice Squad) – Christiansen has begun his 3rd season with the Chiefs (where he picked up a Super Bowl ring after the 2023 season) as a member of the practice squad. Over the last two seasons, he was promoted to the active roster and we anticipate the same thing happening later in 2025.
- Andre Carter III, Detroit Lions (Practice Squad) – after being dropped from the Raiders’ practice squad earlier this season, Carter was picked up by the Lions and placed on their practice squad.
2025 Army LB’s Continue The Tradition
Senior Co-Captains, Andon Thomas and Kalib Fortner are the two Inside Linebackers and leaders of the 2025 Army football team. Affectionately nicknamed “the Gremlins,” Fortner and Thomas lead their team by example as well as with intensity and inspiration. Both players have gotten looks from NFL scouts this year. Here are their season stats halfway through the 2025 season:
Thomas – leads the team in tackles with 51 including 29 solo tackles and 2 passes defended. Based on Coach Woody’s scheme, Thomas is more likely to drop into coverage while Fortner is more likely to rush the passer.
Fortner – 36 total tackles including 24 solo; 1 sack, 1 forced fumble and 1 fumble recovery. He is second on the team in tackles only to Thomas.
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