Louisville football: The 50 greatest Cardinals of all time

As one of the most vital players during one of the most important coaching transitions in school history, Keith Kelsey is a no-brainer for this list.

The four-year leader had a career that began under Charlie Strong and continued through some of the best years in Louisville football history under a Bobby Petrino and Todd Grantham-guided defense.

Over his career, Kelsey tallied 308 tackles, 23 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, three fumbles forced and three fumble recoveries. Kelsey was a leader on and off the field as the quarterback, so to speak, of some of the more fun Cardinals defenses in memory.

Kelsey was known for his durability and consistency and was a true linebacker who was just as comfortable dropping into coverage as he was at the point of attack on a blitz. He has a great football mind and used his size, speed and instinct to his advantage.

He played for two head coaches, two defensive coordinators, on four teams that spanned from Teddy Bridgewater’s final season to Lamar Jackson’s Heisman Trophy campaign.

No matter the year, Kelsey passes the eye test. Watch any tape from 2013 to 2016 and Kelsey is either in on every tackle or nearby.

Since his career ended, Kelsey has spent a couple of years fighting for a spot on a 53-man NFL roster with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

He also graciously sat down with us, the Cardinal Sports Zone guys and Ibn Green to discuss his career and delve into some of the ins and outs of his illustrious career.