The Next Big Thing (Pt. 2): 9 Linemen from the 2025 Class to Know
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Continuing on this season’s saga of standout performances, we now shift our focus to the heart of the gridiron – The Trenches. The class of 2025 isn’t just shining under the Friday night lights; they’re illuminating the line of scrimmage…
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Continue ReadingContinuing on this season’s saga of standout performances, we now shift our focus to the heart of the gridiron – The Trenches. The class of 2025 isn’t just shining under the Friday night lights; they’re illuminating the line of scrimmage where the war for every yard is fought. The linemen we’re spotlighting aren’t just holding the line; they’re dominating in a way that commands respect. Let’s meet the nine linemen from the class of 2025 who are proving to be real standouts this season.
Kaleb Jones Kaleb Jones 6’2″ | 290 lbs | DL Mountain Pointe | 2025 State AZ from Mountain Pointe is making a serious statement on the defensive line this season. His blend of speed and strength is most showcased in his bull rush technique, where he employs his arms effectively to overpower and disengage from blockers. Once he beats the block, how fast he gets to the quarterback is a testament to his quickness and understanding of the offensive scheme. His hustle doesn’t take a backseat, showcasing a relentless pursuit that doesn’t stop until the play ends. What sets Jones apart is his football acumen, particularly in the run game. He reads the flow seamlessly, ensuring he’s always a factor but never overstepping. His consistent effort in hunting down the quarterback coupled with his disciplined approach in the run game makes him a name to remember in the trenches.
One of the many towering offensive linemen from Liberty, Nicholas Spence Nicholas Spence 6’6″ | 290 lbs | OL Liberty | 2025 State AZ , is a testament to what good form and discipline can achieve. His frame is a spectacle in itself – tall, broad, with a wingspan that gives him a distinct advantage at the line of scrimmage. When facing an elite pass rusher flaunting multiple D1 offers last week, Spence remained an unyielding wall, allowing no sacks and exhibiting superior play. His footwork is textbook, making it nearly impossible for defenders to get around him. Spence’s hand technique complements his footwork, creating a synergy that gives him the upper hand. He thrives in his team’s fast-paced offense, showcasing remarkable endurance play after play. His pass blocking is underscored by his impeccable form, fine-tuned footwork, and athletic leverage. While a formidable force in pass protection, Spence also holds his ground in the run game; though adding some bulk and a quicker drive off the snap could elevate his run blocking to match his elite pass blocking. His ability to maintain form and leverage while adapting to the demands of a high-tempo offense marks Spence as a promising and evolving asset on the offensive line.
Jackson Murray Jackson Murray 6’2″ | 255 lbs | DL Horizon | 2025 State AZ of Horizon is a force to be reckoned with on the defensive line, displaying a finesse and strength that bodes well for his football future. Right from his stance, his footwork is exemplary, driving out swiftly and moving to secure the right positioning against his opponent. His strength is evident in just about every snap, where his quick launch off the line often catches opposing linemen off-balance, allowing him to drive them back with force. His knack for keeping linemen at arm’s length not only demonstrates his understanding of leverage but provides him with the vantage to read the run as it develops. When it’s time to disengage and make the play, Murray’s shedding ability shines, quickly breaking off blocks to zero in on the ball carrier. Although his size is decent, it’s his well-rounded skill set that sets him apart. His technique, strength, and football IQ combine for dominance, with a game that speaks volumes of his potential.
Leland Cevedia Leland Cevedia 6’2″ | 295 lbs | OL Casa Grande | 2025 State AZ from Casa Grande stands out on the offensive line, embodying the essence of power and grit every time he takes the field. His build is nothing short of intimidating, a stout frame giving him natural power makes him a daunting opponent in the trenches. The physicality he brings to the game is noticeable, paired with a surprising burst of speed and athleticism. Cevedia is freight train when he pulls around the edge to lead the charge for his running backs. Despite not having the longest reach, he uses his strength and aggression to keep him engaged with defenders. His initial step off the snap is sharp, often getting the positioning advantage that’s crucial in the battle at the line of scrimmage. The fiery edge he plays with sets a tone, and his relentless effort resonates through every play. He can sometimes caught flat-footed, or stopping his feet, but his sheer power often compensates.
J.J. Brutus
J.J. Brutus
The leader in sacks for all of Arizona: J.J. Brutus from ALA West Foothills is a testament to the adage that dynamite comes in small packages. While he may not tower over his opponents, his prowess on the defensive line is colossal. The tally of 21 sacks to his name this season is a glaring testimony to what his blend of power and speed can orchestrate on the field. Brutus brings a level of shiftiness that, coupled with his quick twitch, makes him a menace to block. His ability to bend and dip around the edge not only grants him consistent access to terrorize quarterbacks but has also given him an advantage to beat blocks on every play, contributing to his remarkable sack total. The agility and power he displays aren’t decided by the size of the linemen he’s facing; even against larger opponents, Brutus is often seen overpowering and out-muscling his way through.
Von Brown Von Brown 6’4″ | 315 lbs | OL ALA – Gilbert North | 2025 State AZ of ALA – Gilbert North epitomizes the phrase “mountain of a man” on the offensive line. His towering presence paired with a natural strength makes him a blockade against the pass rush. Defenders find it an impossible task to navigate around his frame and the long reach that comes with it. For a man of his stature, the athleticism he displays is impressive. The nimbleness in his feet is a trait not commonly found in linemen of his size, and a quality that really adds to his effectiveness. While he already exudes substantial power, honing his technique to get lower could amplify that power, especially against larger defensive linemen. Brown’s blocking at the second level was another thing that stood out, where his ability to stay engaged comes to the forefront. His reach proves to be a crucial asset yet again, often engulfing linebackers and creating clear pathways for his teammates. Brown’s blend of size, strength, and surprising agility makes him a huge asset to the offensive line, with a promise of evolving into an even more dominant force with refined technique.
Defensive lineman, Brock Haws Brock Haws 6’2″ | 220 lbs | DL Pima | 2025 State AZ from Pima High, is a compelling presence in the trenches, wielding a pair of strong legs that often serve as the driving force in pushing back opposing linemen. His effectiveness in the run game is apparent, often tracking down running backs before they gain traction. Haws showcases speed and power en route to the quarterback, though refining his skill moves could add another layer of menace to his game. Consistency is a hallmark of his play, providing a reliable bulwark against both the pass and the run. Haws’ knack for tracking the ball-carrier effectively amplifies his ability to shed blocks and tally tackles for loss. His capability to cause disruption off the edge with speed and quickness, coupled with his effectiveness in stonewalling runs up the middle, shows his versatility on the line. Brock Haws Brock Haws 6’2″ | 220 lbs | DL Pima | 2025 State AZ isn’t just confined to a single role; his attributes allow him to be deployed wherever the battle in the trenches demands, making him a multifaceted asset.
Hayden Williams Hayden Williams 6'6" | 290 lbs | OL Youngker | 2025 State AZ
Hayden Williams Hayden Williams 6'6" | 290 lbs | OL Youngker | 2025 State AZ
Emerging from the ranks at Youngker, Hayden Williams Hayden Williams 6’6″ | 290 lbs | OL Youngker | 2025 State AZ is making a name for himself on the offensive line. With his substantial frame, acting as a steadfast anchor amidst the relentless battle in the trenches. His reach is a significant asset; once engaged with a defender, he very rarely lets that player out of his grasp. While his foot speed may not be the quickest, the potential for honing that aspect of his game is there. The strength behind his push is impressive as he’s often displacing defenders to carve paths in the run game. Enhancing his quickness on his feet could elevate his ability to contend with the agile defenders at the second level. Still, once Williams is engaged, his effectiveness in maintaining blocks shines through. His ability to meld strength with leverage makes him a solid pillar on the offensive line, with room for evolution that could see him morph into an even more dominating force as he refines his agility and footwork.
Dorian Turner Jr.
Dorian Turner Jr.
Navigating the trenches at Central High School, Dorian Turner Jr. is a figure of agility and precision on the defensive line. Showcasing a burst of speed that often leaves offensive linemen grasping for air, he rushes towards the quarterback with a knack for evading blocks. His style as a pass rusher is unique, displaying an innate feel for the game’s rhythm and a laser-focused attck of the quarterback. Turner Jr. leverages his speed elegantly, crafting a blend of haste and control that often tips the scale in his favor. His contributions extend to the run game as well, where his sharp reads are a testament to his football IQ. He’s rarely caught off guard by a rushing play; instead, he meticulously works down the line, ensuring he’s positioned to thwart the run without being burned. His physicality, despite his frame, is an asset that amplifies his impact, whether it’s rushing the passer or stalling the run. Turner Jr.’s balance of speed, physical play, and game awareness makes him a player to watch on the defensive line.