Under the Radar Prospects: Linebacker Spotlight
In this article:
Xe’Ree Alexander Xe’Ree Alexander 6'3" | 205 lbs | LB Kennedy Catholic | 2023 State WA , Kennedy Catholic HS
Playing mostly outside linebacker, Alexander is a versatile defender with good coverage ability, fluid hips in space and natural instincts when breaking to the ball and making big plays. Able to jump routes with ease, he has a good feel for the game and is extremely smart when back in coverage. When coming downhill, he displays well timed pressures with the ability to dip and use his hands when pass rushing and is a natural bender around the edge. Possessing elite athleticism, he can successfully get off blocks as well and is a very balanced and high upside linebacker in college.
George Kruger, Bellevue HS
Kruger is a true inside linebacker with a physical mentality that brings a nice pop upon contact. He weaves his way through traffic in tight windows quickly while moving smoothly laterally and closing quickly in the hole. Although a bit undersized, he makes up for it with his play style, high IQ and relentless motor in the open field. In space, he seems comfortable in coverage and recognizes zone responsibilities while quickly breaking to ball carriers and taking good angles in the open field while exploding through contact. Kruger is a top linebacker across the region and can make a big impact at the next level.
Alex Good Alex Good 6'3" | 220 lbs | LB Ballard | 2023 State WA , Ballard HS
Playing mostly outside linebacker, Good is a very athletic kid that holds the edge well and plays his responsibilities consistently. Able to rush the passer with natural bend and quick hands, he is physical against the run and shows consistent block destruction against bigger blockers. Off the edge, he has an explosive first step and closing speed while collapsing the pocket and understanding pass rush angles and when to use counter moves.
Kalani Steward Kalani Steward 6'0" | 200 lbs | LB Richland | 2023 State WA , Richland HS
The now Junior linebacker is one of the most under-recruited linebackers in the region and can make an impact at the next level. Pre snap, he has a quick play diagnosis and takes good angles in the open field while a strong tackler in space and when closing in on ball carriers. Performing well timed pressures up the middle, he brings a very nice thump upon contact and drives through ball carriers with physicality and toughness. Steward is very active and always around the ball while moving well laterally and can weave through traffic with good pad level and while understands zone coverage responsibilities.