Polk County Tackling Machines

Here's a breakdown of some of Polk County's notable defensive players as the season wraps up. These tackling machines have been putting in serious work on the field, and their stats speak for themselves.   Tayron Grant | LB | 2026 | Mulberry   • Stats: 139 tackles, 21.0 TFL   • Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/4pf__tayy">@4pf__tayy</a>   Grant leads the county in tackles, and it's no surprise he's a huge part of Mulberry's success this season. His relentless motor and ability to track down ball carriers make him a consistent playmaker. Grant's junior campaign has placed him firmly in the spotlight as he racks up impressive stats week after week.   Quinten Meyers | LB | 2027 | Mulberry   • Stats: 132 tackles, 22.0 TFL   • Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/Quinten_2027">@Quinten_2027</a>   After returning from a hand injury, Meyers came back with a vengeance. Despite his young age, Meyers is already the county's second-leading tackler, and his natural instincts and tackling prowess show he has all the makings of a future star. With time on his side for more development, this 2027 prospect is just getting started.   Paul Wright | LB | 2027 | Kathleen   • Stats: 102 tackles, 2.0 TFL   • Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/PAULWRIGHT___">@PAULWRIGHT___</a>   Kathleen has found a gem in Wright. With over 100 tackles this season, he's one of the young standouts to watch. Wright brings energy to the field, and his drive is helping to revitalize the Red Devils. Expect this rising linebacker to become a staple for Kathleen in seasons to come.   Cordelius Allen | ATH | 2027 | Tenoroc   • Stats: 102 tackles, 9.0 TFL   • Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/CordeliusAllen1">@CordeliusAllen1</a>   Allen has been a breakout player for Tenoroc, bringing athleticism and an ability to find the ball. With triple-digit tackles and solid tackles for loss, Allen is helping shape Tenoroc's defense. His skills have given Tenoroc something to build on for future seasons.   De'Coryian Stanley | LB | 2025 | Bartow   • Stats: 99 tackles, 10.0 TFL   • Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/DeCoryianS">@DeCoryianS</a>   Bartow's defense has been anchored by Stanley, who's proven himself a force this season. With nearly 100 tackles and double-digit tackles for loss, Stanley is showing off his versatility and playmaking ability. He's one to keep an eye on for next-level potential.   Tory Dopson | DB | 2026 | Mulberry   • Stats: 99 tackles, 12.0 TFL   • Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ToryDopson9">@ToryDopson9</a>   Dopson adds another weapon to Mulberry's defensive arsenal. As a DB with nearly 100 tackles, Dopson demonstrates an aggressive playing style, flying all over the field. At 6-0 and 175 pounds, he brings size and physicality, contributing significantly to Mulberry's defense.   [player_tooltip player_id='1368321' first='Elijah' last='Dias'] | LB | 2026 | Auburndale   • Stats: 88 tackles, 22.0 TFL   • Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/twin_frmpolk">@twin_frmpolk</a>   Auburndale's Dias has been a key contributor on defense, stacking up impressive tackle-for-loss numbers along with solid tackling. A USF commit, Dias is one of the county's leaders in tackles for loss, and his work ethic and skill set make him a standout in Polk County.   Isaac Jackson | ATH | 2025 | Bartow   • Stats: 84 tackles, 7.0 TFL   • Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/IkeJackson863">@IkeJackson863</a>   Jackson's senior season has been nothing short of impressive. Known for his high motor and aggressive play, Jackson has been one of Bartow's most reliable defenders. A true Division I prospect, his impact goes beyond the stats, bringing leadership and intensity to the field.   D'Cari Smith | ATH | 2026 | Lake Wales   • Stats: 84 tackles, 12.0 TFL   • Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/1era__">@1era__</a>   Smith is another emerging talent who's drawing interest with his consistent production and versatility. Contributing on both sides of the ball, Smith has been a tackling machine for the Highlanders. His ability to disrupt plays and bring down runners makes him a rising prospect to watch.   [player_tooltip player_id='1581765' first='Mekhi' last='Berrien'] | LB | 2026 | Fort Meade   • Stats: 81 tackles, 5.0 TFL   • Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/MekhiBerrien">@MekhiBerrien</a>   Berrien has quietly become the backbone of Fort Meade's defense. With solid tackling stats and instincts for finding the ball, Berrien brings intensity and control to the middle of the field. His play this season shows that Fort Meade has a reliable leader in their linebacker corps.   Malachi Moore | LB | 2027 | Lake Gibson   • Stats: 72 tackles, 3.0 TFL   • Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/MalachiMoore222">@MalachiMoore222</a>   Moore has been working hard on his frame and technique, and it's showing. Only in his sophomore year, Moore has college potential written all over him. He's been flying around the field, making plays and solidifying his role on Lake Gibson's defense.   [player_tooltip player_id='1209647' first='Trey' last='Berry'] | LB | 2025 | LCS   • Stats: 75 tackles, 6.0 TFL   • Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/Trey_berryy2">@Trey_berryy2</a>   Berry has been a versatile playmaker for LCS, leading his team in total tackles. With a solid frame and the ability to cover and tackle, Berry has proven himself as a dependable defensive player, one who's likely to keep drawing attention as he continues to develop.

Here's a breakdown of some of Polk County's notable defensive players as the season wraps up. These tackling machines have been putting in serious work on the field, and their stats speak for themselves.