Future D1 Stars: 2026 OLBs You Need to Know

The 2026 class is loaded with explosive outside linebackers (OLBs) who have the size, speed, and instincts to make an impact at the next level. As high school juniors, these rising stars are already catching the attention of college recruiters with their ability to fly to the football, disrupt plays in the backfield, and excel in coverage. Whether they're setting the edge, dropping into coverage, or bringing the heat on blitzes, these athletes showcase the versatility that Division 1 programs covet.   In this article, we highlight the top 2026 OLB prospects who are proving they have what it takes to be future D1 standouts. Keep an eye on these names as they continue to dominate under the Friday night lights and climb recruiting boards nationwide.    KeShaun Johnson is a physically gifted outside linebacker with the size and athleticism to excel at the next level. His explosiveness off the edge allows him to be a dominant pass rusher, consistently putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Johnson plays with a high motor, showing great pursuit and sideline-to-sideline speed. His ability to drop into coverage and read plays makes him a versatile weapon for any defense. With continued development, he has the potential to be a high-impact Power 5 prospect.     [player_tooltip player_id='1755504' first='Noah' last='Tubb'] stands out with his combination of strength and football IQ, making him a leader on his defense. He has a nose for the football, routinely making plays in the backfield due to his quick reaction time and strong tackling ability. His physicality sets the tone, as he sheds blockers with ease and delivers punishing hits. Tubb's agility in coverage is impressive, allowing him to track tight ends and running backs effectively. As he continues to refine his technique, he projects as a reliable linebacker at the next level.     [player_tooltip player_id='1404985' first='Rhett' last='Cofer'] possesses a rare blend of power and speed that makes him a force on the edge. His first step is explosive, allowing him to gain an advantage against offensive linemen and disrupt plays early. He has excellent hand usage and a relentless motor, making him a nightmare for opposing offenses. Cofer also shows strong instincts in coverage, reading quarterbacks well and breaking on the ball with confidence. His potential as a pass rusher and run stopper makes him a top-tier 2026 linebacker prospect.     Trenton Jackson is an aggressive, high-energy linebacker with the ability to impact the game in multiple ways. He thrives in run defense, showing exceptional gap discipline and the ability to take on blocks without losing ground. His lateral quickness and foot speed allow him to cover ground quickly and chase down ball carriers. Jackson's awareness in coverage is another strength, as he recognizes route concepts and reacts with precision. With his natural playmaking ability, he's poised to be a highly recruited prospect in the coming years.     [player_tooltip player_id='1906796' first='Walter' last='Myrick'] has the prototypical frame and athleticism that college coaches covet in an outside linebacker. His length and burst off the edge make him a disruptive force in both pass rush and run defense. He plays with great discipline, staying patient while reading plays before attacking with controlled aggression. Myrick's ability to set the edge and force plays back inside is a valuable trait that makes him a difference-maker. With continued development, he has the potential to become a dominant defender at the next level.

The 2026 class is loaded with explosive outside linebackers (OLBs) who have the size, speed, and instincts to make an impact at the next level. As high school juniors, these rising stars are already catching the attention of college recruiters with their ability to fly to the football, disrupt plays in the backfield, and excel in coverage. Whether they're setting the edge, dropping into coverage, or bringing the heat on blitzes, these athletes showcase the versatility that Division 1 programs covet.