Film Don’t Lie: 2026 LBs Who Are Proving Themselves on Tape

In the world of high school football recruiting, the eye test only goes so far—real evaluation happens on film. For the Class of 2026, several linebackers are making a name for themselves with their play on tape, showcasing the instincts, physicality, and versatility that college coaches look for. Whether it's reading plays before they happen, delivering punishing hits, or dropping into coverage with ease, these linebackers are proving they have what it takes to compete at the next level. Let's dive into the film and highlight the rising stars who are standing out.    Augsburger jumps off the screen with his elite play recognition and downhill speed. He sheds blocks efficiently and delivers powerful tackles in the hole, showing impressive physicality against the run. His lateral quickness allows him to track ball carriers sideline to sideline, making him a consistent force in pursuit. In pass coverage, he displays fluid hips and a strong understanding of zone concepts, making him a well-rounded second-level defender. With his relentless motor and ability to read offenses pre-snap, Augsburger is emerging as a high-level prospect in the 2026 class.     Oliver stands out with his explosive first step and natural instincts at linebacker. He excels at timing his blitzes, often pressuring the quarterback or disrupting plays in the backfield. His physicality shines in the run game, where he consistently disengages from blockers and finishes plays with authority. In coverage, he shows solid footwork and awareness, allowing him to stick with tight ends and running backs in space. Oliver's versatility and aggressive style make him a game-changer on defense.     Brown plays with a chip on his shoulder, bringing a hard-nosed mentality to the linebacker position. His ability to diagnose plays quickly allows him to react without hesitation, closing gaps with excellent burst. He's a sure tackler who rarely misses in one-on-one situations, making him a reliable enforcer in the middle. His speed and agility also allow him to contribute in coverage, where he has a knack for reading quarterbacks and breaking on the ball. Brown's physicality and football IQ make him a must-watch prospect in the 2026 cycle.     Moore's presence on the field is undeniable, as he brings an old-school, downhill linebacker mentality. His ability to take on and shed blockers allows him to control the line of scrimmage, making him a dominant run-stopper. He plays with great leverage and uses his hands well, ensuring he doesn't get caught out of position. While he thrives against the run, he's also an underrated athlete in coverage, showing the ability to read quarterbacks and disrupt passing lanes. Moore's toughness and high football IQ make him a leader on defense and a rising star in the 2026 class.     Charles Buley stands out on film with his instincts and relentless pursuit of the ball carrier. He diagnoses plays quickly, shedding blockers efficiently and closing space with explosive acceleration. His physicality at the point of attack is evident, consistently delivering strong, form tackles that limit yards after contact. In pass coverage, Buley demonstrates fluid movement and awareness, dropping into zones effectively and reacting well to route concepts. His versatility and high football IQ make him a rising linebacker prospect in the 2026 class.

In the world of high school football recruiting, the eye test only goes so far—real evaluation happens on film. For the Class of 2026, several linebackers are making a name for themselves with their play on tape, showcasing the instincts, physicality, and versatility that college coaches look for. Whether it's reading plays before they happen, delivering punishing hits, or dropping into coverage with ease, these linebackers are proving they have what it takes to compete at the next level. Let's dive into the film and highlight the rising stars who are standing out.