Preseason Review - Austin Westlake Chaparrals

A perennial powerhouse in Texas high school football, the Chaparrals are once again under the direction of head coach Tony Salazar. Westlake finished the 2024 season with a strong 12-2 record and went a perfect 6-0 in district play, ultimately falling short in the state championship against North Crowley. With most of their core returning, the Chaparrals are poised to make another deep run. This is the same storied program that produced standout quarterbacks like Cade Klubnik, and the standard of excellence remains as high as ever heading into the new season. Here are some key players to look forward to in 2025:   <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/07/image_2f9368.png?w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-1728412" style="width:617px;height:auto" /></figure>   Date — Opponent 8/29 — @ Prosper 9/5 — @ San Benito 9/12 — @ Atascocita 9/19 — vs Steele 10/2 — @ Akins* 10/9 — vs Austin* 10/17 — @ Bowie* 10/24 — vs Lake Travis* 10/31 — @ Del Valle* 11/7 — vs Dripping Springs*    Rees has proven to be a steady and productive leader under center for Austin Westlake. He threw for over 2,500 yards and 24 touchdowns during the 2024 season, guiding the Chaparrals to a 12-2 record and a trip to the state championship. Rees operates with confidence in the pocket, showing strong command of the offense and the ability to deliver accurate throws to all levels of the field. Now committed to Ole Miss, the future Rebel enters his senior season with high expectations and a chance to cement his legacy at one of Texas' premier programs as Westlake looks to finish what they started.        Austin is a key piece in Westlake's run game and a true multi sport athlete. A tough, physical runner with great balance and vision, he brings consistent production to the backfield. His athleticism also shows on the baseball field, where he's a standout as well. That two-sport background translates to the gridiron with sharp instincts, body control, and competitiveness. Expect Austin to play a big role in keeping the offense balanced and explosive in 2025.     Sebastian is the tone-setter on defense for Westlake. As a linebacker, he plays with a high motor and a physical edge that energizes the unit. He's instinctive against the run, rarely caught out of position, and shows the ability to shoot gaps and disrupt plays in the backfield. What separates Sebastian is his closing speed and willingness to finish with authority. He's a communicator, a leader, and someone offenses have to account for every snap.      Lawson brings a vertical element to Westlake's passing game that stretches defenses. A true deep threat, he's dangerous with his ability to stack corners and create separation downfield. Lawson tracks the ball well in the air and has the speed to turn any play into six. His presence opens up the field for the rest of the offense, and he's the kind of receiver who only needs one step to change the momentum of a game.        Niko is a reliable and versatile tight end who adds balance to Westlake's offense. He's a strong blocker in the run game, holding his own at the line of scrimmage, but also brings value as a pass catcher. With soft hands and good route awareness, Niko finds space in the middle of the field and provides a dependable target on key downs. His physicality and willingness to do the dirty work make him a quiet but crucial piece of the offense heading into 2025.      Holden brings consistency and precision as Westlake's long snapper. Often overlooked but always essential, his clean operation on special teams helps anchor one of the most reliable units in the state. Holden's quick release and accuracy in both punt and field goal situations give Westlake the confidence to execute under pressure. He's a steady presence and an unsung contributor to the Chaparrals' championship pursuit.      William is a disciplined and dependable player who embodies everything you want in a leader. Now committed to Air Force, he plays with a high level of focus, toughness, and effort on every snap. Whether it's on defense or special teams, William brings a no-nonsense mentality and does all the little things right. His commitment to the game and attention to detail make him a glue guy for Westlake and someone who will thrive at the next level.      Mason is a downhill linebacker with a nose for the football. He plays fast and physical, showing quick read and react ability that allows him to close on ball carriers in a hurry. Whether he's shooting gaps or chasing plays sideline to sideline, Mason brings relentless energy and finishes with authority. His physicality and effort stand out on film, and he's the kind of player who sets the tone early and keeps the pressure on for four quarters.      Thompson is a rangy and instinctive defensive back with a knack for making plays. He reads the quarterback well and has the ball skills to turn coverage opportunities into takeaways. Whether he's in man or zone, Thompson stays disciplined in his technique and isn't afraid to come downhill and help in run support. His length and closing speed give him the ability to cover ground quickly.      Jack is a strong, disciplined defensive lineman. He's Committed to Princeton, he combines physicality with smart technique, using his leverage and awareness to disrupt plays in the backfield. Jack's relentless work ethic and ability to read offensive schemes make him a key component of Westlake's defensive front. He consistently sets the tone with his toughness and leadership on and off the field.      William is a disciplined and reliable player who brings intensity and focus to every snap. With an offer from Navy, he exemplifies toughness, leadership, and smart play on both sides of the ball. William's attention to detail and work ethic make him a dependable force for Westlake, and his versatility allows him to contribute in multiple phases of the game.      Maddox is a powerful presence on the defensive line who consistently disrupts opposing offenses. Committed to TCU, he plays with great leverage and uses his strength to shed blockers and penetrate the backfield. His motor never quits he's relentless in pursuit and doesn't give up on plays, wearing down offensive lines as the game progresses. His ability to collapse the pocket and stop the run makes him a cornerstone of Westlake's defensive front.      Nolan is a dependable and clutch kicker for Westlake's special teams unit. He shows consistent accuracy on field goals and extra points, even under pressure. With strong leg power and solid technique, Nolan gives the Chaparrals a reliable weapon in scoring situations. His calm demeanor and focus make him a steady presence when the game is on the line.      Wylie is a tenacious and versatile defensive back who excels in coverage and run support. He has quick hips and sharp instincts that allow him to stay locked on receivers and make timely tackles. Wylie's physical style and aggressive approach disrupt opposing offenses, and his ability to read the quarterback helps him create turnovers. He's a key part of Westlake's secondary and a consistent playmaker on defense.      Jackson is a transfer from Lago Vista High School ready to make an immediate impact on Westlake's offensive line. With offers from Pittsburg and Texas Tech already in hand, Jackson brings proven strength and technique to the trenches. He plays with physicality and smart footwork, consistently creating running lanes and protecting the quarterback.      Weston is climbing the depth chart and poised to make a significant contribution to Westlake's defense. He plays with aggression and discipline, showing the ability to shed blocks and make tackles near the line of scrimmage. Weston's growing awareness allows him to anticipate plays and stay involved sideline to sideline.      Carson is a versatile linebacker with a knack for making game-changing plays. His quick decision-making and aggressive pursuit allow him to penetrate the backfield and force turnovers. More than just a physical presence.      Austin is a hardworking defensive lineman eager to make a name for himself in 2025. With a strong work ethic and relentless motor, he's focused on improving his technique and consistency. Austin shows the ability to disrupt plays with timely penetration and isn't afraid to mix it up in the trenches. This season, he's determined to step up and become a key contributor to Westlake's defensive front.     With a winning culture, an elite coaching staff, and a roster loaded with returning talent including Ole Miss commit Rees at quarterback Westlake enters the 2025 season as one of the top contenders in the state once again. After falling just short of a state title in 2024, the Chaparrals are hungry, experienced, and motivated to reclaim their spot at the top of Texas high school football.

A perennial powerhouse in Texas high school football, the Chaparrals are once again under the direction of head coach Tony Salazar. Westlake finished the 2024 season with a strong 12-2 record and went a perfect 6-0 in district play, ultimately falling short in the state championship against North Crowley. With most of their core returning, the Chaparrals are poised to make another deep run. This is the same storied program that produced standout quarterbacks like Cade Klubnik, and the standard of excellence remains as high as ever heading into the new season. Here are some key players to look forward to in 2025: