Returning Impact: 3A C/O 2027 Linebackers

Florida has long been a hotbed for high school football talent. Year after year, the Sunshine State produces some of the nation's most electric prospects. From game-breaking speed to next-level agility and pure, raw athleticism, Florida athletes consistently set the tone on Friday nights, and college coaches across the country take notice.   With the 2025 season now in the rearview, we're turning our focus to the players whose stock is rising across the state. Every athlete on this list has the tools to play at the next level. Some already hold multiple offers, while others are just beginning to gain traction, but all possess the ability to compete in college football in the right fit.   This group features a mix of nationally regarded standouts and under-the-radar sleepers who deserve serious attention from college programs. Simply put, this list is loaded with difference-makers.   Prep Redzone Florida will continue to support and spotlight these athletes as they chase their goal of playing college football.   Blaze Allen – LB, Bishop Moore High Height/Weight: 6'1", 210 lbs Season Stats: 125 total tackles, 64 solo, 61 assisted, 6 TFL, 4 sacks over 14 games. 3.9 GPA, 1st team All-State linebacker, 4.7 40   Scouting Report: Allen is a big, productive linebacker who plays with excellent speed and range. He shows strong instincts and the ability to make plays all over the field, earning 1st team All-State honors while consistently leading his defense in tackles.   Analysis: Allen projects as a high-level linebacker with proven production and accolades. His combination of size, speed, and All-State recognition make him a very strong prospect.   [player_tooltip player_id='2194574' first='William' last='Giovinazzi'] – LB, Nature Coast Tech Height/Weight: 6'1", 205 lbs Season Stats: 122 total tackles, 74 solo, 48 assisted, 16 TFL, 0 sacks over 11 games.   Scouting Report: Giovinazzi is a sure-tackling, high-volume linebacker who excels at stopping the run. He shows great pursuit and consistently gets into the backfield, racking up an impressive 16 tackles for loss.   Analysis: Giovinazzi projects as a physical and disruptive linebacker. His high tackle totals and ability to create negative plays highlight his value on defense.   Ari Bentley – MLB, Tavares High Height/Weight: 6'0", 215 lbs Season Stats: 111 total tackles, 58 solo, 53 assisted, 16 TFL, 2 sacks over 10 games. All-County selection.   Scouting Report: Bentley is a strong, physical middle linebacker who commands the middle of the field. He plays with good leverage and aggression, showing the ability to shed blockers and make plays behind the line of scrimmage.   Analysis: Bentley projects as a sturdy playmaking linebacker with strong production. His All-County recognition and tackle-for-loss numbers show his disruptive presence.   Bennett Cornelison – MLB, Menendez High Height/Weight: 5'10", 185 lbs Season Stats: 109 total tackles, 50 solo, 59 assisted, 4 TFL, 2 sacks over 10 games. 1st team All-FACA, Led district in tackles. 3.7 GPA   Scouting Report: Cornelison is a high-motor, instinctive middle linebacker who leads by example. He shows excellent tackling ability and football IQ, earning 1st team All-FACA honors while leading his district in total tackles.   Analysis: As a class of 2027 player, Cornelison projects as a smart, reliable leader in the middle of the defense. His high tackle production and accolades reflect his consistency and toughness.   Ashton Caldwell – MLB, West Florida High Height/Weight: 5'9", 190 lbs Season Stats: 96 total tackles, 33 solo, 63 assisted, 3 TFL, 1 sack over 11 games. 4.85 40, 285 lb bench.   Scouting Report: Caldwell is a compact, powerfully built middle linebacker who plays with great strength and leverage. He is a consistent tackler who excels at filling gaps and supporting the run with solid physicality.   Analysis: Caldwell projects as a tough, low-center-of-gravity linebacker. His strength numbers and high tackle volume make him a dependable defender.   [player_tooltip player_id='2130485' first='Jelani' last='Bentley'] – LB/Edge, Tavares High Height/Weight: 6'0", 215 lbs Season Stats: 92 total tackles, 49 solo, 43 assisted, 16.5 TFL, 9 sacks over 10 games. 4.0 GPA, 4.85 40.   Scouting Report: Bentley is an explosive edge linebacker/pass rusher who shows excellent quickness and finishing ability. He consistently disrupts offenses with 9 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss in just 10 games.   Analysis: Bentley projects as a pass-rush specialist with strong production. His combination of size, speed, and sack ability gives him nice upside.   Tony Tanner – OLB/ATH, Dunnellon High Height/Weight: 5'9", 180 lbs Season Stats: 90 total tackles, 63 solo, 27 assisted, 12 TFL, 1 sack over 14 games.   Scouting Report: Tanner is a quick, athletic outside linebacker who plays with great effort and pursuit. He shows good instincts and the ability to make plays across the field over a full season of strong production.   Analysis: Tanner projects as a high-motor, versatile athlete on defense. His durability and consistent tackling make him a valuable contributor.

Florida has long been a hotbed for high school football talent. Year after year, the Sunshine State produces some of the nation's most electric prospects. From game-breaking speed to next-level agility and pure, raw athleticism, Florida athletes consistently set the tone on Friday nights, and college coaches across the country take notice.