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Hard Hits & High Ceiling: The New LB Faces to 2027 Rankings

Hard Hits & High Ceiling: The New LB Faces to 2027 Rankings
Robert Davis
Robert Davis March 24, 2025 @ 12:13 PM
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In this article:

Gabe Galindo
Gabe Galindo 145 lbs | LB/RB | 2027
CO
Josiah Zimmerman
Josiah Zimmerman 5'10" | 165 lbs | LB | 2027
CO
Colton Shirley
Colton Shirley 6'2" | 180 lbs | LB/WR | 2027
CO
Jackson Savona
Jackson Savona 6'0" | 175 lbs | LB/RB | 2027
CO
Lijah Vialpando
Lijah Vialpando 6'1" | 170 lbs | LB/RB | 2027
CO
Cole Rueschhoff
Cole Rueschhoff 5'10" | 195 lbs | LB/RB | 2027
CO
<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>If you are NEW and looking to subscribe, use CODE: Davis30 for a discount off of your first subscription! The Prep Redzone Combine Series is back! April 26th we have both Middle School and High School events going that day. Make sure you get signed up with early bird specials and make sure to use CODE: DavisCombine25! SHOW UP AND SHOW OUT!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1625979"],"_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-67e19239587d1"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A dynamic linebacker with exceptional vision, Vialpando is a force in both the run and pass game. He has a natural ability to diagnose plays, delivering punishing hits on ball carriers while providing key support in coverage. His impressive stat line of 126 total tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 4 fumble recoveries, and 3 interceptions speaks to his playmaking ability. Vialpando thrives in multiple roles, whether sniffing out screens, shooting into the backfield to stop the run, or disrupting passing lanes. His strong hands allow him to secure interceptions, and he makes receivers think twice before crossing the middle. As the No. 1 linebacker in his class, he aims to replicate his standout production and solidify his spot on every scout's radar</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1581101"],"_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-67e1923958839"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A high IQ linebacker with elite speed, Rueschhoff is a sideline to sideline defender who consistently makes plays all over the field. His ability to read and react allows him to shoot gaps and shut down the run, while his quickness off the edge makes him a legitimate pass rushing threat. With his skill set as a coverage backer, I believe that this makes him a versatile defender that is key to his teams success in pass defense. Rueschhoff finished the season with 72 total tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 1 sack, and 1 fumble recovery. His strong performances at Prep Redzone camps have already turned heads, and he'll look to carry that momentum into team camps this offseason.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1635063"],"_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-67e1923958888"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A relentless linebacker with a knack for shedding blocks, Shirley makes an impact in the backfield with his quick reads and aggressive play. He has the strength and pad level to fight through double teams and stop ball carriers in their tracks. Shirley racked up 126 total tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries, proving himself as one of 1A's premier defenders. His ability to always be around the football makes him a player to watch and with his high motor, expect him to build on his strong season and make even more noise this year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1635091"],"_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-67e19239588fe"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Zimmerman was a disruptive force last season, posting 111 total tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 1 sack, and 2 forced fumbles. His high energy, aggressive playing style allows him to consistently make plays behind the line of scrimmage. With strong instincts and quick reactions, he's able to diagnose plays and attack ball carriers before they gain momentum. As he continues to develop, expect him to play an even bigger role for his team. If he continues this level of production, don't be surprised to see his sack numbers rise and his impact grow in the upcoming season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1635101"],"_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-67e1923958948"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Galindo is a reliable open field tackler that has a natural ability to bring down ball carriers with authority. He flies around the field making plays, finishing the year with 88 total tackles and 7 tackles for loss. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt offensive rhythm make him a key player on this defense as he often is forcing hurried throws and mistakes. Galindo also has a knack for forcing turnovers, recording 2 forced fumbles last season. With his versatility and defensive playmaking, expect him to be a key two-way player next season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1626014"],"_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-67e192395898f"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Savona is a well rounded linebacker with strong instincts and the ability to impact the game in multiple ways. He's an excellent open field tackler, quickly closing in on quarterbacks and ball carriers. His speed and vision allow him to react instantly, shoot gaps, and make plays in the backfield. Savona finished the season with 88 total tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and 3 interceptions, proving his ability to affect both the run and pass game. A stock-rising player, he's expected to hit the camp circuit and continue making a name for himself heading into next season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->

If you are NEW and looking to subscribe, use CODE: Davis30 for a discount off of your first subscription! The Prep Redzone Combine Series is back! April 26th we have both Middle School and High School events going that day. Make sure you get signed up with early bird specials and make sure to use CODE: DavisCombine25! SHOW UP AND SHOW OUT!

Lijah Vialpando

Lijah Vialpando

CO
LB/RB
HEIGHT 6'1"
WEIGHT 170
POS LB/RB
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Lijah
Vialpando LB/RB
Class
2027
Height
6'1"
Weight
170
HS
Columbine
|
CO
Hard Hits & High Ceiling: The New LB Faces to 2027 Rankings
A dynamic linebacker with exceptional vision, Vialpando is a force in both the run and pass game. He...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Lijah Vialpando

Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Columbine
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Cole Rueschhoff

Cole Rueschhoff

CO
LB/RB
HEIGHT 5'10"
WEIGHT 195
POS LB/RB
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Cole
Rueschhoff LB/RB
Class
2027
Height
5'10"
Weight
195
HS
Cheyenne Mountain
|
CO
Hard Hits & High Ceiling: The New LB Faces to 2027 Rankings
A high IQ linebacker with elite speed, Rueschhoff is a sideline to sideline defender who consistently makes plays...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Cole Rueschhoff

Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Cheyenne Mountain
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Colton Shirley

Colton Shirley

CO
LB/WR
HEIGHT 6'2"
WEIGHT 180
POS LB/WR
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Colton
Shirley LB/WR
Class
2027
Height
6'2"
Weight
180
HS
Platte Canyon
|
CO
Hard Hits & High Ceiling: The New LB Faces to 2027 Rankings
A relentless linebacker with a knack for shedding blocks, Shirley makes an impact in the backfield with his...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Colton Shirley

State: Colorado
School: Platte Canyon
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Josiah Zimmerman

Josiah Zimmerman

CO
LB
HEIGHT 5'10"
WEIGHT 165
POS LB
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Josiah
Zimmerman LB
Class
2027
Height
5'10"
Weight
165
HS
Peyton
|
CO
Hard Hits & High Ceiling: The New LB Faces to 2027 Rankings
Zimmerman was a disruptive force last season, posting 111 total tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 1 sack, and...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Josiah Zimmerman

Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Peyton
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Gabe Galindo

Gabe Galindo

CO
LB/RB
WEIGHT 145
POS LB/RB
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Gabe
Galindo LB/RB
Class
2027
Weight
145
HS
Greeley Central
|
CO
Hard Hits & High Ceiling: The New LB Faces to 2027 Rankings
Galindo is a reliable open field tackler that has a natural ability to bring down ball carriers with...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Gabe Galindo

State: Colorado
School: Greeley Central
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Jackson Savona

Jackson Savona

CO
LB/RB
HEIGHT 6'0"
WEIGHT 175
POS LB/RB
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Jackson
Savona LB/RB
Class
2027
Height
6'0"
Weight
175
HS
Eaton
|
CO
Hard Hits & High Ceiling: The New LB Faces to 2027 Rankings
Savona is a well rounded linebacker with strong instincts and the ability to impact the game in multiple...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Jackson Savona

State: Colorado
School: Eaton
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

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