CenTex Dominant LBs: Rd. 4 Playoff Edition

These Linebackers have been huge parts of their team's success in the postseason, and they look to continue their run to the state title. We have all ends of the spectrum of hitters in this piece, and each one is instrumental to their respective defense. Texas high school football playoffs are like none other in the nation, so watch for these young men in round 4.    Hutson Hendrix has been a standout on the defensive side of the ball for the Boerne Greyhounds this season, totaling 141 tackles and averaging 11 per game. The 5'11", 200-pound senior is a force in the trenches, with 13 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, 2 interceptions, 2 fumble recoveries, and 2 blocked punts to his name. Hendrix's ability to read the triangle and make quick, heady decisions allows him to disrupt plays, while his tough, stout build and solid run fits make him a reliable anchor for the Greyhounds' defense. Whether it's stuffing the run or making a big play in the backfield, Hendrix is a game-changer.     Delson Cavaness has been a dominant presence on defense for the Miller Bucs, racking up 142 total tackles this season, averaging 11 per game. The 6'0", 206-pound senior linebacker has been a nightmare for opposing offenses, with 25 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, and 3 pass breakups. Cavaness reads the offensive line exceptionally well, reacting quickly to the ball with relentless pursuit and a "dog mentality" that makes him a constant disruptor. His excellent vision and ability to make plays all over the field have solidified him as one of the top linebackers in the area.     [player_tooltip player_id='473807' first='Cade' last='Haug'] has been a huge factor for the Kingwood Mustangs this season, totaling 140 tackles and averaging 11 per game. The 6'2", 210-pound sophomore is a dynamic playmaker, recording 5 tackles for loss, 1 interception, 2 fumble recoveries, and even blocking a punt and a field goal. Haug's speed allows him to cover the entire field, making him a threat both in run defense and coverage. With his explosiveness, alertness, and dominant presence, it's no surprise he holds an offer from Houston with other p4 schools showing lots of interest. Haug's all-around game has made him one of the most talented linebackers to watch in the state.     Junior linebacker Colton Hornsby has been a game-changer for the Smithson Valley Rangers this season. The 6'0”, 185-pound menace has been everywhere on the field, piling up 138 tackles—an impressive 11 per game—along with 12 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, and 3 defensive touchdowns. Whether it's sniffing out a play in the backfield or locking down in coverage, Hornsby's instincts and athleticism shine through. A spark plug and sure tackler, he's the kind of player every coach dreams of, and he's only getting better. Keep an eye on this 2026 prospect—he's just getting started.     Aiden Galvan might be compact at 5'8” and 165 pounds, but the senior linebacker plays like a giant for the Sinton Pirates. With 134 tackles on the season—averaging 10 per game—Galvan has been a relentless force, adding 13 tackles for loss and 7 sacks to his stat sheet. Known for his sneaky speed and quick reactions, he's a ball hawk who excels both in run fits and in pass defense. His ability to read the field and explode to the ball makes him a nightmare for offenses. Galvan's mix of toughness and versatility has been the heartbeat of the Pirates' defense in 2025.

These Linebackers have been huge parts of their team's success in the postseason, and they look to continue their run to the state title. We have all ends of the spectrum of hitters in this piece, and each one is instrumental to their respective defense. Texas high school football playoffs are like none other in the nation, so watch for these young men in round 4.