Kentucky Stockrisers: Top 2025 Linebackers

With another week of high school football action in the books, it's time to visit the state of Kentucky to highlight some of the most impactful playmakers on the defensive side of the ball. Today, we will be focusing our attention to some impressive junior linebackers that have made their presence known on the field so far this season. Without any further ado, here's my list of the top 2025 linebackers in the Bluegrass State to keep an eye on as the season progresses.    At the top of my list of notable performers is [player_tooltip player_id='735606' first='Ethan' last='Reynolds'], a 6-foot-0, 210-pound linebacker at South Warren High School. Reynolds has been a gamechanger for the Spartans' defense in six contests, collecting 47 total tackles, including 22 solo stops, 25 assisted takedowns, 10 tackles for loss and four sacks. In addition to excellent size and speed, Reynolds impresses me with his physical edge and ability to barrel through the offense to apply pressure and hit the quarterback. Another aspect of Reynolds that stands out is how he utilizes bursts of speed to attack the ball in the pocket and along the edge.    I am additionally impressed with [player_tooltip player_id='373035' first='Jimmy' last='Mooney'], a 5-foot-10, 215-pound linebacker at Paducah Tilghman High School. Mooney has been one of the more explosive components of the Blue Tornado defense in six games, recording 47 total tackles, including 28 solo stops, 19 assisted takedowns and two tackles for loss. What stands out most about Mooney is his explosiveness off the snap, showcasing his ability to read the offense and quickly blast offensive playmakers in the pocket. Mooney's consistency in getting to the quarterback and finding openings in the offensive line also impresses.    Claiming the number three spot on my list is [player_tooltip player_id='673546' first='Brady' last='Cornell'], a 5-foot-9, 190-pound linebacker at Bullitt East High School. Cornell has been an outstanding defensive weapon for the Chargers this season, picking up 26 total tackles, including 19 solo stops, seven assisted takedowns and two tackles for loss. Cornell makes a difference due to his footwork and versatility in the pocket as well as his physical edge. Cornell additionally stands out with his consistent stopping power, keeping the offense out of the backfield while utilizing his speed to get close to the quarterback and push the offense back.    Another skilled prospect to keep an eye on is [player_tooltip player_id='773233' first='Kaden' last='Baker'], a 6-foot-0, 200-pound linebacker at DuPont Manual High School. Baker has contributed more than a few impressive stops for the Crimsons' defense this season, recording 14 total tackles, including six solo stops as well as eight assisted takedowns. Baker stands out with his calculated execution and ability to position himself inside the pocket, showcasing his ability to both scan and stop the offense from escaping or using the edge to pick up yards. Baker also impresses with his ability to quickly muscle past the offensive line and apply heavy defensive pressure.    Coming in at number five on my list is [player_tooltip player_id='738848' first='Jayden' last='Axson'], a 6-foot-1, 225-pound linebacker at Bowling Green High School. Axson has made a considerable difference for the Purples on the defensive side of the ball this season, picking up 31 total tackles, including 14 solo stops and 17 assisted takedowns. Axson is a playmaker due to his ability to blast the offense and protect the backfield, proving he can make quick and efficient tackles. Another aspect of Axson's playstyle that has been turning heads is his ability to consistently read the offense and position himself in the right area to make stops.

With another week of high school football action in the books, it's time to visit the state of Kentucky to highlight some of the most impactful playmakers on the defensive side of the ball. Today, we will be focusing our attention to some impressive junior linebackers that have made their presence known on the field so far this season. Without any further ado, here's my list of the top 2025 linebackers in the Bluegrass State to keep an eye on as the season progresses.