Under the Radar Linebackers to Know

Now that we’re fully into the 2020 season, more and more players are starting to step up and make a name for themselves. It’s easy to notice the offense players who put up the yards and points, but there are a few defenders at linebacker who could see their recruitment start to take off after a few great weeks. &nbsp; <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="34037" first="Dwight" last="Johnson Jr."]</strong> - Dutchtown If you’re in middle Georgia, the standout linebacker from Hampton at Dutchtown high school is a player to know. At 6-foot-0 205-pounds, Johnson Jr. is a heat-sinking missile at linebacker who appears to be one of the best linebackers in his region. Just a sophomore, Johnson Jr. has the genetics as his father is a former NFL player, and his uncle is former All-Pro defender Derrik Johnson. The Dutchtown star plays like his relatives, showing great instincts, sideline to sideline speed, and the ability to tackle. He’s strong, but he knows how to wrap up properly and bring the ball carrier to the ground. Look for him to see some offers to come his way sooner than later. &nbsp; <strong>Jalen Marshall and CJ Nunnally - </strong>South Paulding In West Georgia, the South Paulding Spartans have two linebackers who are having great seasons so far. Jalen Marshall is a S/LB hybrid at 6-foot-3 190-pounds with 23 solo tackles, 10 assisted tackles, 10 TFLs, 5 sacks, 2 Qb hurries, and 2 PBU in 3 games. He’s a versatile defender who can cover in the back end but also set up in the box to help stop the run. His size, length, and athleticism make him one of the best defenders in the area. Nunally is a 6-foot-4 220-pound OLB/DE with 8 solo tackles, 10 assisted, 5 TFsL, 2.5 sacks, 9 QB hurries. He’s a lean edge defender with speed off the edge with linebacker instincts. He can get after the passer and set the edge with the best of them. He holds one current offer from East Carolina. &nbsp; <strong>Joshua Cooper</strong> - Riverdale He might not be the biggest or flashiest linebacker, but 2022 defender Cooper is one who deserves recognition. As a sophomore last season, the 5-foot-11 190-pounder recorded 52 Tackles (37 Solo), 2 TFLs, and named an All-Region selection. He’s quick, shows great instincts, and knows how to deliver a proper tackles. He can shoot the gaps and can be too quick and athletic for the average offensive lineman to block. Cooper is a prospect to know in the Atlanta area. &nbsp; <strong>Trey Hargrove</strong> -Ware County The 5-foot-11 195-pound sophomore from South Georgia can really run and is as physical as it gets. He can cover man to man, stuff the run, and he’s an exceptional edge rusher with great use of hands. He’s a very smart football player and is a leader as only a sophomore. His older brother is current Vanderbilt linebacker commit, [player_tooltip player_id="33711" first="Michael" last="Mincey"]. &nbsp; <strong>Q Carter</strong> - Lee County The 6-foot-3 195-pounder from Leesburg is off to a good start this season. He’s a big, physical presence that can cover a deep third, play man, and plays run extremely physical in the box. He used to play receiver and has an understanding of route combos and WR splits.