Five New LB’s Crushing Through the 2028 Rankings Update

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Today we will be taking a look at several linebackers that have emerged with production and potential to demand attention from scouts. This next wave of defenders brings a blend of instincts, range and physicality to the second level. Each prospect has flashed impact traits on film and now steps into the spotlight looking to elevate his stock. With strong offseason development and continued growth within their respective programs, these linebackers have an opportunity to become true names on the rise and generate meaningful buzz on the recruiting trail.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1969480"],"_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-6994bc5616b33"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Knapp established himself as one of the most productive middle linebackers in the group, finishing with 108 total tackles, five tackles for loss and one sack. His vision between the tackles stands out, as he diagnoses plays quickly and shoots gaps just as fast to disrupt plays before they develop. Knapp shows sideline to sideline range and closes the gap fast, making him a top tier open field tackler. He consistently breaks down and chops down ball carriers with good technique. Building on this momentum will be key as he aims to duplicate that production next season and attract increased attention from college programs evaluating instinctive, high motor defenders.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1855310"],"_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-6994bc5616cc9"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Congleton enters the rankings as a versatile linebacker trending upward. He totaled 64 tackles, two tackles for loss and one interception, highlighting his ability to contribute in multiple ways for this defense. Congleton is comfortable dropping into coverage, reading the quarterback's eyes and reacting to routes developing in front of him. Against the run, he plays with discipline and shows a willingness to step downhill to fill lanes. Another full offseason in the weight room, combined with exposure on the camp circuit, should accelerate his development. His balanced skill set positions him as a linebacker capable of making a significant jump in the coming months.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1855522"],"_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-6994bc5616dc7"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Westerkamp is working to carve out a larger role and become a difference maker for Columbine. He demonstrated his disruptive presence with three sacks and three tackles for loss, while also compiling 44 total tackles in space. Westerkamp plays with physicality at the point of attack and shows the ability to pressure the quarterback when called upon. In the open field, he takes good pursuit angles and finishes plays with authority. A productive offseason focused on strength and consistency could elevate his impact even further. Continued growth would position him as a key defensive presence and a prospect gaining traction statewide.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2071666"],"_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-6994bc5616e78"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Gearheard saw limited action this season, yet his frame and physical tools suggest significant upside for Windsor moving forward. Standing 6'1 and 185 pounds, he possesses the build to develop into an impactful presence at linebacker. Gearheard recorded 10 total tackles and recovered a fumble, flashing his awareness around the football. As he competes for an expanded role, a dedicated offseason within the program will be essential. Added strength and refined technique should help him assert himself in the defensive rotation. With opportunity and development aligning, Gearheard has the potential to emerge as an under the radar contributor next season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2119601"],"_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-6994bc5616f4f"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Escamilla delivered a strong statistical season with 83 total tackles and two tackles for loss, while also impacting the passing game with multiple pass breakups. At 5'7 and 170 pounds, his long term projection may lean toward a hybrid linebacker/safety role, where his quickness and instincts can be maximized in space. Escamilla plays with urgency and a noticeable edge, attacking ball carriers and finishing with strong contact. Continued development in the weight room will be important as he works to disengage from blocks more consistently. With added strength and offseason exposure, he has the tools to elevate his profile and continue ascending the rankings.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->