2024 Under-the-Radar Linebackers

With linebackers being the quarterbacks of the defense, it is critical for teams to find solid players for that position. The Class of 2024 has an incredibly deep class at linebacker. Today, we look at four of those prospects who are currently flying under-the-radar. [player_tooltip player_id="236325" first="Andrew" last="Evans"], 6’0, 205 pounds, Ben Davis [player_tooltip player_id="236325" first="Andrew" last="Evans"] played a big role for Ben Davis this past season. Evans appeared in 13 varsity contests. In those games, He recorded an impressive tally of 53 solo tackles and 65 tackles overall. Evans shows the ability to get after the quarterback. He accounted for seven quarterback hurries and one-and-a-half sacks. Evans has the coverage and ball skills needed to handle that crucial aspect of a linebacker’s game. He had two passes defensed, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. [player_tooltip player_id="292309" first="Bradley" last="Gibson"], 6’1, 190 pounds, Hobart [player_tooltip player_id="292309" first="Bradley" last="Gibson"] has emerged as a leader for the Hobart defense. Gibson can fly to the football. On plays that go to the outside, he demonstrates great pursuit and gets in position to make the play. Gibson does well at keeping his shoulders square to the line-of-scrimmage. He provides the added benefit of being able to play both middle and outside linebacker. Further adding to his versatility is the fact that he can cover kickoffs. [player_tooltip player_id="292309" first="Bradley" last="Gibson"] is a prospect who can make a move up the state rankings next season. [player_tooltip player_id="109608" first="Ralph" last="Rogers"], 6’0, 190 pounds, Bloomington North [player_tooltip player_id="109608" first="Ralph" last="Rogers"] is a prospect who is on the cusp of a big breakthrough season. Able to play both middle and outside linebacker, Rogers has outstanding speed. He can get consistent pressure on the quarterback, and he is a disruptor in the running-game. On run plays, Rogers does a good job of putting his foot in the ground and attacking downhill. In the passing-game, Rogers displays great coverage skills. Crucially, Rogers has the vision and awareness necessary to play linebacker at a high level. [player_tooltip player_id="189135" first="Avery" last="Mills"], 6’0, 170 pounds, Oak Hill [player_tooltip player_id="189135" first="Avery" last="Mills"] is an exciting prospect at both outside linebacker and running back. Mills is a premier pass-rusher off the edge. He plays with reckless abandon, getting after the quarterback frequently. Offensively, Mills uses that speed to create big plays. Mills’ contributions extend to all three phases of the game. He is a very effective kickoff returner. [player_tooltip player_id="189135" first="Avery" last="Mills"] is an exciting prospect who is bound to turn heads in 2022.