No, it is not a strength...it is not a good unit and they have not played well individually or collectively outside of Bentley, and while Bentley is a solid LB, he is only better than average by Purdue standards in that the measuring bar is so low. Those guys consistently miss tackles, fail to make plays in space, are not good in coverage...it is most definitely not a strength. For that matter, Purdue has no legitimate strength.
Freeman, much like Bentley, is a star only by Purdue standards...he may very well be the best assistant coach on the staff, but given how poor the staff is, that is hardly some badge of honor or genuinely worthy title/achievement.