IL Rising Stars: Class of 2025 Inside Linebackers
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The Class of 2025 in the Land of Lincoln is loaded with talent at every position. Below are some Class of 2025 linebackers who burst onto the scene last season. As they prepare for their senior seasons, keep an eye…
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Continue ReadingThe Class of 2025 in the Land of Lincoln is loaded with talent at every position. Below are some Class of 2025 linebackers who burst onto the scene last season. As they prepare for their senior seasons, keep an eye on these rising stars at the inside linebacker position.
Chandler is a 6’1, 220 lbs linebacker out of Kankakee. While he can certainly play on the edge, Chandler shined most as an off-ball, middle linebacker who owned the middle of the field for the Kays. In the run game, Chandler is a highly instinctual player who takes run-throughs in the blink of an eye. He is an extremely physical tackler who plays with patience and poise. He runs incredibly well, which translates to his pass coverage also. When all was said and done after his junior campaign, Chandler tallied 85 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, 6 sacks, and 1 interception. As this rising star’s recruitment is beginning to heat up, Chandler is a can’t miss prospect who is set to dominate in his senior season.
Highlights
Callahan is a true interior linebacker who has a nose for the football. The 6’2, 215 sam backer from St. Ignatius is unafraid to throw his body around. Callahan has strong recognition for opposing run game, as he can read pullers and scrape with urgency to meet the ball carrier in the hole. At the point of attack, Callahan tackles with a strong base, low pad level, and always looks to knock the ball out. He is also a high effort player who give 100% until the whistle is blown. Relentless in pursuit, keep an eye on Callahan as a Class of 2025 rising prospect in the Land of Lincoln.
The 5’11, 205 lbs inside linebacker from Princeton is an intriguing Class of 2025 prospect. Morris, who possesses elite instincts and physicality, is a true run stuffer who is difficult to account for opposing offenses. He showcases the ability to diagnose run game, get off of blocks, and knock ball carriers backwards at or behind the line of scrimmage. Morris uses his hands incredibly well and plays with a powerful base that allows him to finish on tackles. He is quick in short area and uses a combination of speed and strength to run through tackles. A rising star, watch out for Morris to continue to fly up recruiting boards heading to his senior year.
Burt is a 6’1, 225 lbs middle linebacker out of Marmion Academy. He has the size, speed, and strength that all elite linebacker possess. What stands out most about Burt is his high motor. He is relentless in his pursuit of the ball, whether he is running sideline to sideline in the run game or blitzing. Burt’s energy jumps out when watching his film. He has plus speed, smooth athleticism, and plays with a physicality that strikes fear in opposing offenses. As he heads into his senior year, Burt’s stock is soaring throughout the state of Illinois.
Highlights
Dan is not only one of the top linebackers in the state but could finish next season as one of the most underrated defensive players in Illinois. The 5’11, 210 lbs inside backer out of Lake Forest finished his junior campaign with 94 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. What stands out immediately about Dan’s game is his physicality and knack for taking the ball away. This high motor player never misses a chance to hit the opposing quarterback. Especially for an inside linebacker, Dan has polished pass rushing technique and is incredibly efficient when blitzing. He is a stout tackler who can also get off of blocks quickly. Keep an eye on this rising star as Dan heads for his senior season.