Linebackers Ready to Make Their Mark This Season

Shannon Jordan July 24, 2026 @ 01:52 PM

Florida remains the undisputed powerhouse of high school football talent in America. Year after year, the Sunshine State delivers some of the most explosive, dynamic prospects in the country — athletes blessed with elite speed, breathtaking agility, and raw, game-changing athleticism. On Friday nights, Florida sets the standard, and college coaches nationwide are watching.   As the 2025 season fades in the rearview mirror, all eyes now turn to the Class of 2028 and the rising standouts poised to dominate the 2026 campaign. This list highlights players whose stock is climbing rapidly. Every athlete featured possesses the talent and tools to succeed at the collegiate level. Some are already collecting multiple scholarship offers, while others are emerging sleepers just starting to draw serious interest — but all are capable of making an immediate impact in the right program.   From nationally ranked difference-makers to under-the-radar gems, this group is stacked with future college playmakers. Prep Redzone Florida will continue to spotlight and support these athletes as they pursue their dreams of playing at the next level.       [player_tooltip player_id='1986628' first='Joseph' last='Bustos'] – LB, Lakeland Christian Height/Weight: 5'11", 170 lbs Season Stats: 42 tackles, 4 TFL, 6.5 sacks, 1 fumble recovery   Scouting Report: Bustos is a disruptive pass rusher with good speed and instincts. He shows the ability to get after the quarterback quickly and create pressure, finishing with a strong 6.5 sacks and 4 TFL.   Analysis: Bustos projects as an active edge linebacker who excels at creating negative plays. His pass-rush production makes him a valuable asset in aggressive defensive schemes.   Davin Sirmons Jr. – LB, Lakeland Christian Height/Weight: 6'1", 205 lbs Season Stats: 83 tackles, 7 TFL, 5.5 sacks   Scouting Report: Sirmons is a well-rounded linebacker who combines strong tackling with pass-rush ability. He flies to the ball, creates chaos in the backfield, and shows the physicality to be effective against the run.   Analysis: Sirmons projects as a productive, versatile linebacker. His high tackle total and ability to generate negative plays make him a key contributor who can impact games in multiple ways.   Maddox Lehman – LB, Menendez High Height/Weight: 5'10", 195 lbs Season Stats: 126 tackles, 3 TFL, 3.5 sacks   Scouting Report: Lehman is a reliable, sideline-to-sideline linebacker who consistently makes tackles all over the field. He shows good pursuit and the ability to provide stability to the defense with his high-volume production.   Analysis: Lehman projects as a steady, high-effort linebacker with excellent tackle production. His consistency makes him a dependable piece in the front seven.   Kolby Saladino – LB, Booker T. Washington High Height/Weight: 5'11", 210 lbs Season Stats: 121 tackles, 10 TFL, 2 sacks   Scouting Report: Saladino is a tough, downhill linebacker who excels in run support. He uses his frame to shed blocks and finish tackles, showing good instincts and physicality in the box.   Analysis: Saladino projects as a physical, run-stopping linebacker. His high tackle total and ability to create negative plays make him a strong contributor against the run.

Florida remains the undisputed powerhouse of high school football talent in America. Year after year, the Sunshine State delivers some of the most explosive, dynamic prospects in the country — athletes blessed with elite speed, breathtaking agility, and raw, game-changing athleticism. On Friday nights, Florida sets the standard, and college coaches nationwide are watching.