Login Subscribe
    • Players/Parents
    • College Coaches
  • Choose Your State Middle School Coverage
    Alabama
    Arizona
    Arkansas
    California
    Canada
    Colorado
    Dakotas
    Florida
    Georgia
    Idaho
    Illinois
    Indiana
    Iowa
    Kansas
    Kentucky
    Louisiana
    Maryland
    Michigan
    Minnesota
    Mississippi
    Missouri
    Nebraska
    Nevada
    New England
    New Jersey
    New Mexico
    New York
    North Carolina
    Ohio
    Oklahoma
    Oregon
    Pennsylvania
    South Carolina
    Tennessee
    Texas
    Utah
    Virginia
    Washington
    West Virginia
    Wisconsin
  • Loading...
  • Loading...
  • Tournaments
    • 7 on 7 7 on 7
    Showcases
    • High School High School
    • Middle School Middle School
    About Our Events
  • Prep Redzone for
    • Players
    • Parents
    • Club Coaches
    • High School Coaches
    • College Coaches
    • Fans
    View All Features
    • Coverage Access Prep Redzone articles year-round.
    • Rankings See how players stack up in each state.
    • Player Profiles Build your own profile and join the Prep Redzone database.
    • Coach Views Get notified when a college coach views your profile.
    • Profile Trends Track your Player Profile views over time.
    • Recruiting Tasks Stay on-track in the recruiting process
    • Recruiting Dashboard All your recruiting tools in a single place.
    • College Match Recommends colleges that match with your profile.
    • Coach Contacts Contact any program in the country.
    • Event Credits Save $25 on all Prep Redzone combines.
    • Recruiting Tips Become an expert on the recruiting process.
    • College Email Templates Send customized emails directly to college coaches.
    • Scouts
    • How We Rank
    • About Us
  • Alabama
  • Rankings
    • How We Rank

    • Archived Rankings

    • 2026 Rankings

    • 2027 Rankings

    • 2028 Rankings

  • Player Database
  • Team Rankings
  • Scores
  • Scouts
  • Home
  • Coverage
      Choose Your State Middle School Coverage
      Alabama
      Arizona
      Arkansas
      California
      Canada
      Colorado
      Dakotas
      Florida
      Georgia
      Idaho
      Illinois
      Indiana
      Iowa
      Kansas
      Kentucky
      Louisiana
      Maryland
      Michigan
      Minnesota
      Mississippi
      Missouri
      Nebraska
      Nevada
      New England
      New Jersey
      New Mexico
      New York
      North Carolina
      Ohio
      Oklahoma
      Oregon
      Pennsylvania
      South Carolina
      Tennessee
      Texas
      Utah
      Virginia
      Washington
      West Virginia
      Wisconsin
  • Events
      Tournaments
      • 7 on 7 7 on 7
      Showcases
      • High School High School
      • Middle School Middle School
      About Our Events
  • Rankings
      Loading...
  • Scores
      Loading...
  • Features
      Prep Redzone for
      • Players
      • Parents
      • Club Coaches
      • High School Coaches
      • College Coaches
      • Fans
      View All Features
      • Coverage Access Prep Redzone articles year-round.
      • Rankings See how players stack up in each state.
      • Player Profiles Build your own profile and join the Prep Redzone database.
      • Coach Views Get notified when a college coach views your profile.
      • Profile Trends Track your Player Profile views over time.
      • Recruiting Tasks Stay on-track in the recruiting process
      • Recruiting Dashboard All your recruiting tools in a single place.
      • College Match Recommends colleges that match with your profile.
      • Coach Contacts Contact any program in the country.
      • Event Credits Save $25 on all Prep Redzone combines.
      • Recruiting Tips Become an expert on the recruiting process.
      • College Email Templates Send customized emails directly to college coaches.
  • About Us
      • Scouts
      • How We Rank
      • About Us
  • Support
Login Subscribe

2026 Alabama DLs with High D1 Potential

2026 Alabama DLs with High D1 Potential
CJ Marable
CJ Marable October 27, 2024 @ 08:37 AM
Facebook
X (Formerly Twitter)

In this article:

Vodney Cleveland
Vodney Cleveland 6'3" | 295 lbs | DL | 2026
AL
Tyson Bacon
Tyson Bacon 6'3" | 230 lbs | DL | 2026
AL
Keenan Britt
Keenan Britt 6'2" | 230 lbs | DL | 2026
AL
<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Alabama's high school football scene is loaded with talented athletes, and the class of 2026 is no exception. Among the most promising prospects are a number of defensive linemen (DLs) who have already begun making their mark on the field, demonstrating skills and physical attributes that could easily translate to the next level. These young players have the size, strength, and football IQ to be highly sought after by Division 1 programs across the country. In this scouting report, we'll dive into some standout 2026 DLs in Alabama whose talent and potential are positioning them for successful collegiate careers and possibly even beyond.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Jaiden Durden","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"6'2u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"241","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2406","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Boaz High School","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-671e4228e7234"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Durden is a physically imposing lineman with a rare blend of size, speed, and power that sets him apart as an elite prospect. He has a quick first step that allows him to penetrate the backfield consistently, disrupting plays early. Durden's strength at the point of attack makes him a reliable run-stopper, capable of handling double teams and shedding blockers effectively. His motor and work ethic are evident in his relentless pursuit of the quarterback, showcasing his pass-rushing potential. With further development, Durden has the tools to be a high-impact player at the next level.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Joshua Willet","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'9u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"220","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2406","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Moody ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-671e4228e73c3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Willet is a technically sound defensive lineman with impressive awareness and football IQ for his age. His hand usage is advanced, allowing him to disengage blockers and maintain control at the line of scrimmage. Willet's agility and footwork help him excel in lateral movement, making him a versatile asset against both the run and the pass. His ability to read plays and anticipate offensive schemes reflects a mature understanding of the game. With his potential, Willet is primed to develop into a dominant force on any D1 roster.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["401117"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-671e4228e747b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Britt is an explosive athlete with excellent leverage and natural strength, giving him the ability to control the line and collapse the pocket. His quickness off the snap is remarkable, allowing him to get past offensive linemen before they're fully set. Britt's strong hands and lower body power make him difficult to move, making him highly effective in stopping the run. He shows a high level of competitiveness and toughness that shines through in big moments. With continued growth, Britt has the talent and drive to thrive at a high level in college football.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["566977"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-671e4228e7523"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Bacon is a well-rounded lineman who combines size, strength, and athleticism, making him a versatile player on the defensive front. His speed and agility give him the edge as a pass rusher, while his technique in tackling adds to his effectiveness as a run-stopper. Bacon's football instincts and awareness allow him to make adjustments mid-play, often putting him in the right position. He's a high-motor player with a physical playing style that energizes his teammates. His skill set and athletic profile make him an exciting prospect for top D1 programs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["928025"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-671e4228e75cd"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Cleveland is a dynamic defensive lineman who shows excellent balance and coordination, making him a formidable presence on the line. His quick hands and burst off the line enable him to win one-on-one matchups and get into the backfield consistently. Cleveland's physicality and strength allow him to set the edge effectively, containing outside runs with ease. His field awareness and ability to diagnose plays give him a strong foundation for further growth. With his raw talent, Cleveland's ceiling is high, and he's a player to watch in the coming years.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Ford Hawkins","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"6'2u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"215","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2406","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Homewood","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-671e4228e7727"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Hawkins is a powerhouse on the defensive line, with exceptional strength and a relentless drive that makes him a disruptive force. His explosive first step and ability to use leverage make him effective against both the pass and the run. Hawkins displays strong fundamentals, including hand placement and tackling form, which maximize his impact on each play. His work ethic and discipline are evident, as he consistently battles to win every snap. With his physical tools and football smarts, Hawkins has a high ceiling and strong D1 potential.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->

Alabama's high school football scene is loaded with talented athletes, and the class of 2026 is no exception. Among the most promising prospects are a number of defensive linemen (DLs) who have already begun making their mark on the field, demonstrating skills and physical attributes that could easily translate to the next level. These young players have the size, strength, and football IQ to be highly sought after by Division 1 programs across the country. In this scouting report, we'll dive into some standout 2026 DLs in Alabama whose talent and potential are positioning them for successful collegiate careers and possibly even beyond.

Jaiden Durden

Jaiden Durden

HEIGHT 6'2"
WEIGHT 241
POS DL
CLASS 2026

Jaiden Durden

School: Boaz High School
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
Joshua Willet

Joshua Willet

HEIGHT 5'9"
WEIGHT 220
POS DL
CLASS 2026

Joshua Willet

School: Moody
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
Keenan Britt

Keenan Britt

AL
DL
HEIGHT 6'2"
WEIGHT 230
POS DL
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Keenan
Britt DL
Class
2026
Height
6'2"
Weight
230
HS
Oxford
|
AL
2026 Alabama DLs with High D1 Potential
Britt is an explosive athlete with excellent leverage and natural strength, giving him the ability to control the...
Written by CJ Marable
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Keenan Britt

Twitter
State: Alabama
School: Oxford
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
Tyson Bacon

Tyson Bacon

AL
DL
HEIGHT 6'3"
WEIGHT 230
POS DL
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Tyson
Bacon DL
Class
2026
Height
6'3"
Weight
230
HS
Hoover
|
AL
2026 Alabama DLs with High D1 Potential
Bacon is a well-rounded lineman who combines size, strength, and athleticism, making him a versatile player on the...
Written by CJ Marable
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Tyson Bacon

State: Alabama
School: Hoover
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
Alabama
Vodney Cleveland

Vodney Cleveland

AL
DL
HEIGHT 6'3"
WEIGHT 295
POS DL
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Vodney
Cleveland DL
Class
2026
Height
6'3"
Weight
295
HS
A.H. Parker
|
AL
2026 Alabama DLs with High D1 Potential
Cleveland is a dynamic defensive lineman who shows excellent balance and coordination, making him a formidable presence on...
Written by CJ Marable
Alabama
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Vodney Cleveland

State: Alabama
School: A.H. Parker
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Ford Hawkins

Ford Hawkins

HEIGHT 6'2"
WEIGHT 215
POS DL
CLASS 2026

Ford Hawkins

School: Homewood
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
Prep Redzone

Access all of Prep Redzone

Continue reading this article and more.

Continue Reading
Already a subscriber? Log in

Rankings

342 Players Ranked

  • 1
    Cederian Morgan

    Cederian Morgan

    Benjamin Russell

  • 2
    Ezavier Crowell

    Ezavier Crowell

    Jackson

  • 3
    Landon Duckworth

    Landon Duckworth

    Jackson

    South Carolina
  • 4
    Anthony Jones

    Anthony Jones

    St. Paul's Episcopal

  • 5
    Kamhariyan Johnson

    Kamhariyan Johnson

    Muscle Shoals

View Full Rankings

Related Articles

  • Stock Risers- 2026 Defenders Working Their Way up Our List

    Stock Risers- 2026 Defenders Working Their Way up Our List

    Cooper Morreale • November 13

  • PRZ AL Game of the Week: Auburn (9-2) vs. Daphne (9-2)

    PRZ AL Game of the Week: Auburn (9-2) vs. Daphne (9-2)

    Cooper Morreale • November 12

  • Recruiting Report (11/12)- Latest Offers and Commitments

    Recruiting Report (11/12)- Latest Offers and Commitments

    Cooper Morreale • November 12

  • LAUNCH – Prep Redzone: Who’s Next Exposure Camps

    LAUNCH – Prep Redzone: Who’s Next Exposure Camps

    Prep Staff • November 11

  • Postseason Round One- Standout Defensive Performances

    Postseason Round One- Standout Defensive Performances

    Cooper Morreale • November 10

Follow Us

  • Rion Young

    Rion Young

    @MacCorleone74

  • CJ Marable

    CJ Marable

    @TorranceMarable

  • Cooper Morreale

    Cooper Morreale

    @CooperMorreale

  • Austin Butler

    Austin Butler

    @__AustinButler

  • Josh White

    Josh White

    @ceojxsh_

  • Cole Dobbins

    Cole Dobbins

    @ColeDobbinsPRZ

Loading...
Home Alabama 2026 Alabama DLs with High D1 Potential

Prep Network

  • Prep Network
  • Prep Dig
  • Prep Girls Hoops
  • Prep Hoops
  • Prep Lacrosse
  • Prep Redzone
  • Prep Soccer
  • Prep Softball

Company

  • News
  • About
  • Careers
  • Store
  • Partner Interest Form

Resources

  • Terms of Service
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • Cookie Policy
  • NCSA College Recruiting
  • Recruiting Tips
  • Student Loan Resources
  • College Scholarship Search

Support

  • My Account
  • Contact
  • Sitemap

© 2025 Prep Redzone. All rights reserved.