Carolina Recruits Region Top Games Week 2 (Defense)

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>🔒 Week 2 Top Defensive Players to Watch (Carolina Recruits Region)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Defense wins championships — and in Week 2, several standouts have the chance to shift momentum for their teams in big-time matchups. Here are the defensive players to keep an eye on from this week's marquee&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Aydin Leonard","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"null","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2496","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Cape Fear","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68ae6684e3916"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Aydin Leonard | LB | 2026 | Cape Fear</strong><br>Leonard quietly put together a strong opener, leading the Colts with <strong>seven tackles</strong> despite sitting much of the second half in a blowout win. The 2026 linebacker has already proven he can read and react quickly, playing downhill with confidence. This week, however, presents a much bigger challenge as he'll be tasked with slowing down <strong>71st's explosive run game</strong>. If Leonard can set the tone early and help contain the ground attack, Cape Fear's defense will have a real chance to control the game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Xaiveon Gear","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"null","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2496","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Seventy-First","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68ae6684e39e3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Xaiveon Gear | LB | 2026 | Seventy-First</strong><br>Gear is the heart of the Falcons' defense, a tone-setter in the middle who thrives on physical play and leadership. After a tough Week 1, all eyes will be on him to help Seventy-First bounce back and avoid an 0–2 start. Facing Cape Fear's balanced offense, Gear's ability to diagnose plays and rally his unit will be critical in Friday night's rivalry matchup.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1760741"],"_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-68ae6684e3a58"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1760741' first='Jaquay' last='Locke'] | DB | 2026 | Hoggard</strong><br>Locke made his presence felt in the Vikings' home win over Richmond, coming up with several big plays in key moments. The 2026 defensive back showed range and instincts that disrupted the Raiders' rhythm. Now, he'll need to deliver another standout performance as Hoggard heads on the road to face a tough Jack Britt squad. If Locke can keep that same energy in coverage and run support, he could be the difference in a hostile environment.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1034840"],"_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-68ae6684e3acd"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1034840' first='Jaleel' last='Parker'] | DB | 2026 | Jack Britt (Liberty Commit)</strong><br>Parker is one of the most dynamic defensive backs in the state, already committed to Liberty and showcasing elite measurables with <strong>4.4 speed at nearly 200 pounds</strong>. His athleticism and physicality make him a problem for opposing receivers, but he'll face a major test this week against Hoggard's high-powered 8A offense. If Parker can hold his own in coverage and create opportunities for turnovers, he could tilt the momentum in Jack Britt's favor.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["612252"],"_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-68ae6684e3b63"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='612252' first='Christopher' last='Bispham'] | DL | 2026 | Havelock (James Madison Commit)</strong><br>Bispham anchors the Rams' defensive front and is the unquestioned leader in the trenches. The 2026 James Madison commit combines size, strength, and a relentless motor that makes him tough to block. Last week, Havelock's defense allowed just one score, but it wasn't enough to secure the win. Heading into this week, Bispham's impact at the line of scrimmage will be critical if the Rams want to bounce back and set the tone for the rest of their season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1068199"],"_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-68ae6684e3bb9"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1068199' first='Zion' last='Wright'] | LB | 2026 | New Bern</strong><br>Wright was all over the field in last Friday's game, racking up <strong>10 tackles and a sack</strong> to lead the Bears' defense. The 2026 linebacker plays with great pursuit and effort, consistently finding his way to the football. With another tough matchup ahead, Wright will have plenty of opportunities to post another double-digit tackle performance and continue establishing himself as one of the top young defensive playmakers in the region.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Isaiah Chadwick","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"null","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2495","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Wilson Hunt","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68ae6684e3c4a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Isaiah Chadwick | DB | 2026 | Hunt</strong><br>Chadwick made a huge statement last Friday, snagging <strong>two interceptions</strong>, including a <strong>pick-six</strong>, to spark Hunt's defense. The 2026 defensive back also flashed his versatility by finding the end zone on offense, proving he can impact the game in multiple ways. With his playmaking ability in both phases, Chadwick is quickly becoming one of the more dangerous all-around athletes to watch early this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1408773"],"_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-68ae6684e3c90"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1408773' first='Tyler' last='Powell'] | ATH | 2026 | Tarboro</strong><br>Powell is one of the most unique two-way prospects in the state. The 2026 standout is Tarboro's starting quarterback, but he's also regarded as one of North Carolina's top edge defenders. His size, athleticism, and versatility allow him to impact the game on both sides of the ball. As Tarboro looks to start the season 2–0, Powell's leadership and ability to make plays at quarterback and off the edge will be central to the Vikings' success.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1293228"],"_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-68ae6684e3cd0"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Jahli Bryant | DB | Ashley | c/o 2026</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Bryant will have plenty of chances to showcase his talent this weekend against a pass-heavy E.E. Smith squad. With his instincts and playmaking ability, he's the type of defensive back who can flip the momentum of a game with just one play.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1709614"],"_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-68ae6684e3d0d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong><br>[player_tooltip player_id='1709614' first='Cassell' last='Cruickshank'] | Edge | E.E. Smith | c/o 2028</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A rising talent off the edge, Cruickshank has the ability to blow up an opponent's entire game plan. His quickness and disruptive style make him a nightmare for offenses to block. The Golden Bulls will need a big performance from him Friday night to avoid slipping to 0-2 against a balanced Ashley squad.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1706707"],"_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-68ae6684e3d4b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1706707' first='Landon' last='Bossolono'] | LB | D. H. Conley | c/o 2026</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1706707' first='Landon' last='Bossolono'] | LB | D.H. Conley | c/o 2026</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Super 75 linebacker has averaged 150 tackles per season over the last two years. Conley faces a high-powered Northeastern squad, and Bossolono will be counted on to take away the run and lead the charge defensively.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["885129"],"_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-68ae6684e3d89"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='885129' first='Jaylin' last='Mallory'] | LB | Northeastern | c/o 2026</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Mallory wasted no time making his presence felt this season, leading the Eagles with 12 tackles in Week 1. He's a physical, downhill linebacker who sets the tone for Northeastern's defense. With Conley featuring both a steady ground game and efficient passing attack, Mallory's impact will be critical. He'll need another double-digit tackling effort to keep Conley from establishing rhythm and wearing down the defense. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["205617"],"_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-68ae6684e3ded"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='205617' first='Luke' last='Faulkner'] | LB | Southern Nash | c/o 2026</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Faulkner is oe of the top linebackerss i nthe 2026 class and a rare 4-year starter for Southern Nash. His experience and leadership in the middle of the Firebirds' defense set the tone every Friday night, Known for his ability to diagnose plays and finish with physicality, he's a proven difference=maker against both the run and the pass. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This week, Southern Nash faces a tough test against Clayton. For the Firebirds to come out on top, Faulkner will need another big performance — controlling the box, shutting down the Comets' rushing attack, and forcing them into long-yardage situations. If he plays to his usual standard, expect him to be one of the most impactful players on the&nbsp;field. <br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["444280"],"_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-68ae6684e3e31"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='444280' first='Jordan' last='Hamm'] | LB | Clayton | c/o 2027</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Hamm made the move from Wilson Prep to Clayton and has quickly stepped into a leadership role for the Comets' defense. Still only a junior, he plays with the poise and presence of a veteran, anchoring the middle and setting the standard for his teammates. His physicality and willingness to take on blocks make him a natural fit to lead Clayton's front seven.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">This week, Hamm faces one of the toughest assignments in the state: slowing down Southern Nash's run-heavy offense. The Firebirds thrive on misdirection and physicality, meaning Hamm's discipline and ability to read keys will be tested on every snap. To give Clayton the best chance, he'll need to play mistake-free football, shed blockers, and consistently wrap up in the open field. If Hamm rises to the challenge, his impact could keep the Comets in control against a dangerous ground&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->