Inside Look: National Rising Linebackers To Know

Andrew Johnson June 23, 2026 @ 09:06 AM

The linebacker position continues to evolve, requiring players to be physical enough to stop the run while athletic enough to impact the passing game. The prospects below have already begun separating themselves through production, athletic traits, recruiting attention, and long-term upside.    [player_tooltip player_id='2197964' first='Gabriel' last='Player'] | LB | 2028 | Eau Gallie | @Gabrielplayerr   Player has emerged as one of the premier defensive prospects in the 2028 class nationally. Standing 6-4, 195, he possesses the type of length, athleticism, and frame college coaches covet at the linebacker position. Already holding nearly 40 Division I offers, Player has shown the ability to cover ground quickly, disrupt throwing lanes, and create pressure off the edge. His combination of size and movement skills allows him to impact all three levels of the defense. With another offseason of development under his belt, Player enters the fall as one of the most heavily recruited underclassmen in the country.   [player_tooltip player_id='1841108' first='Andre' last='Alexander'] | LB | 2028 | IMG Academy | @8Djalexander   Alexander already looks physically prepared for high-level college football. The 6-1, 220 linebacker from Chesapeake, Virginia put together one of the most productive sophomore seasons in the country, finishing with 117 tackles, 21 TFLs, four sacks, and an interception in just 12 games. He also contributed offensively, rushing for 359 yards and five touchdowns. What makes Alexander special is his ability to pair physicality with athleticism. He arrives downhill with force but still moves fluidly in space and changes direction well. His production, measurables, and recruiting profile firmly place him among the nation's top linebackers regardless of class.   [player_tooltip player_id='2124095' first='Cale' last='Britt'] | LB | 2028 | Bishop Moore | @Cale_britt6   Britt continues to build one of the stronger resumes in Florida's 2028 class. At 6-3, 209, he brings range, physicality, and plenty of upside at linebacker. His school-record 118 tackles along with 4.0 TFLs and 3.0 sacks showcase both consistency and playmaking ability. More importantly, Britt continues to trend upward physically while refining his overall game. Recent P4 offers from Florida State and Miami highlight just how quickly his stock is rising. Expect Britt to be a major name on the recruiting trail throughout the fall.   [player_tooltip player_id='2144399' first='Chris' last='Morillo'] | LB | 2028 | Hudson | @chrismorillo12   Few linebackers in Florida have seen their stock rise faster over the last year than Morillo. The 6-2, 205 defender impacts the game in multiple phases and has developed into one of the more versatile linebackers in the state. His production speaks for itself: 64 tackles, 10.5 TFLs, 4.5 sacks, nine quarterback hurries, two forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, and 10 pass breakups. Morillo also contributed offensively, recording 15 receptions, 249 receiving yards, and 863 all-purpose yards. His versatility, athleticism, and production continue generating attention from programs across the country.   [player_tooltip player_id='1671680' first='Deion' last='Jackson'] | LB | 2027 | Vero Beach | @DeionJackson08   Jackson enters the season as one of Florida's top linebacker prospects in the 2027 class. At 6-1, 215, he combines physicality, explosiveness, and versatility into a complete defensive package. Whether aligned inside or outside, Jackson consistently plays downhill and attacks the football with urgency. His strong footwork and ability to operate in space make him valuable against both the run and pass. Vero Beach enters the season with championship aspirations, and Jackson is expected to be one of the key leaders on a defense loaded with talent.   [player_tooltip player_id='1671689' first='Kaden' last='Woodie'] | LB | 2027 | Spruce Creek | @KadenWoodie   Woodie may be one of the more underrated linebacker prospects in Florida entering the season. The 6-3, 220 defender possesses the frame and physical tools college coaches look for at the next level. Last season, he recorded 55 tackles, 13 TFLs, seven sacks, and 10 quarterback pressures while consistently disrupting opposing offenses. His ability to rush the passer and create negative plays immediately jumps off the film. As he continues developing his overall game, don't be surprised if Woodie becomes one of the bigger risers in the state by midseason.

The linebacker position continues to evolve, requiring players to be physical enough to stop the run while athletic enough to impact the passing game. The prospects below have already begun separating themselves through production, athletic traits, recruiting attention, and long-term upside.