First 4 Games Tape Spotlight: LBs (Pt. 1)

Get 30% Off Your Subscription with Code PRZWV30 at Checkout!   The first three weeks of the season have passed, and we'll be highlighting prospects who have produced highlight tapes for their first few games. Colleges will evaluate prospect film from the first three games of the season to assess their progress from last year and the off-season, as they update their recruiting boards. Here are some LB prospects to check out from the first four weeks of the season with film!    [player_tooltip player_id='1112752' first='Marcos' last='Kniska'] continues to prove why he's the top linebacker in the 2026 class and possibly in the state in our eyes through the first four weeks of his senior season. He's starting to get the recognition he's always deserved from other media outlets and should see more college opportunities soon if they're paying attention. Kniska has been a force for the Hawks this season and has elevated his pass coverage ability this year with three interceptions in four games. He plays middle linebacker the way it's meant to be played in modern days, being highly effective in both the passing and running game.      2026 Huntington LB [player_tooltip player_id='866678' first='Bryce' last='Winkfield'] has been at the top of the Highlanders' defense for tackles all season through the first four weeks and is having his best year yet. If he maintains this pace for the remainder of the season, more D2 opportunities should come his way and force them to overlook some potential size concerns. Winkfield has put on noticeable size since last season, and it's translated to more downhill physicality from his middle linebacker spot.      2026 Jefferson ATH [player_tooltip player_id='1652519' first='Tre'Von' last='Ledbetter'] continues to showcase why he has that label in our rankings during his senior year. He's doing some good things on defense for the Cougars this year at OLB, and would make a great Nickel candidate at the next level. His athletic versatility is translating well in pass coverage, as he can play man and zone coverage lined up over the slot. Ledbetter is giving good carries on offense as well, but may have given colleges another position to think about on defense this season as a prospect who we believe is worthy of D2 looks.      2026 North Marion LB [player_tooltip player_id='1139400' first='Josh' last='Holden'] continues to be a steady, consistent player for the Huskies at middle linebacker through the first four weeks of his senior season. He has filled out well since emerging late in his sophomore season and has steadily grown and strengthened over the past two years. Defensive end or EDGE is likely his future at the next level, given his size trajectory and athletic skill set. However, Holden is still his usual downhill, physical self at MLB this season and has D2 potential in our eyes.      2027 Bridgeport RB/LB [player_tooltip player_id='1154891' first='Gabe' last='Martin'] is having a phenomenal start to his junior season for the Indians on both sides of the ball. He's putting himself in the conversation for some postseason accolades if he maintains this pace for the remainder of the year. Martin had put up eye-opening stats at running back this year, with over 500 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns in 4 games that were largely over by halftime. That's a new role for him this year, as the Indians needed to replace a stable of backs from last year's state championship team. They may not have needed him as much on defense so far this season, but Martin remains one of the best linebacker prospects in the 2027 class, with a new position to showcase himself at this season on offense that will give him options at the next level.

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