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<p>We're heading to the second level of the 2026 defensive class to highlight a handful of LBs who are way under the radar, yet could help a program down the road.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Scott is a versatile player who can do a bit of everything. At 6'2" and 215, he's got the size to be a factor near the line of scrimmage but still moves like a DB, which is rare for a guy his size. His athleticism stands out, and he's got a fluidity to his game that makes him a problem for blockers. With 40 tackles, 7 TFLs, and 3 sacks on the year, he's proven he can be disruptive in both the run and pass game. He's also in on plays when it matters, with a deflected pass and a fumble recovery to his name. Scott's got a lot of tools in his kit, and the ceiling is there to take his game even higher.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Stringer made the full-time jump from TE to LB, which may have been the best decision. Not because he's a bad TE, but because he's such a good LB. He's got the perfect frame to be in the second level. His reach is good, his range is even better, and he plays fast and downhill and finishes tackles. His 73 tackles, 6 TFLs, 4 sacks, and 2 PBUs were good enough to give him an All-Conference nod last year and I anticipate another jump as a senior.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Byers was a nightmare off the edge last season, constantly finding his way into the backfield and disrupting plays. He's got a quick first step and knows how to use his hands to shed blocks, which helped him rack up 15 TFLs and 10 sacks. He's got a relentless motor and plays through the whistle. With 74 tackles on the year, he's not just a pass rusher either. He can track the ball and finish plays. He's a small school stud who I think is way under the radar.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Cruz is versatile for Greensburg and has been for a few years. He has over 1000 yards rushing the ball and has been able to be a reliable back to convert tough downs. He has over 100 career tackles as well and can close gaps in a hurry but doesn't have unlimited range. He plays downhill, can get off blocks, and does a good job keeping himself in the play. I like where he's at right now in the development process because he's been consistent for a few years.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Dodson is a physical presence with a great build that might fly under the radar due to playing at a lesser-known school. He's a downhill player who can cover a lot of ground and isn't afraid to mix it up in the box. With 98 tackles, 8 TFLs, and 4 forced turnovers, Dodson shows he can be an impact player on both sides of the ball. His muscle and physicality make him a solid asset, and I expect him to turn some heads once schools catch on to what he can do.</p>
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We're heading to the second level of the 2026 defensive class to highlight a handful of LBs who are way under the radar, yet could help a program down the road.
HEIGHT
6'2"
WEIGHT
220
POS
LB
CLASS
2026
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HEIGHT
6'2"
WEIGHT
210
POS
LB
CLASS
2026
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HEIGHT
6'1"
WEIGHT
200
POS
DL/LB
CLASS
2026
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HEIGHT
6'0"
WEIGHT
220
POS
RB/LB
CLASS
2026
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HEIGHT
6'2"
WEIGHT
225
POS
LB
CLASS
2026
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
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