159 tackles (29 solo), 5 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 2 fumble recoveries

8-4 record
82.14 Strength Index
60.34 Opponents’ Strength Index
#5 seed in North, Group IV
Lost to Phillipsburg in Group IV State Semifinals

Best game: 19 tackles (6 solo) in 6-35 defeat at Phillipsburg in Group IV State Semifinal

Worst game: 8 tackles (1 solo) in 24-14 victory at Montclair

Zak Darwish Zak Darwish 6'0" | 215 lbs | LB Ramapo | 2025 State NJ is the most physically imposing linebacker on this list, standing at a solid 6’0” and 215 pounds. His stature alone is intimidating, but his physicality on the field sets him apart. Zak is a downhill tackler who thrives on meeting ball carriers in the hole. His power and leverage often result in stalemates, during which he can drive the opposition backward.

One of Zak’s standout traits is his ability to play under control. He rarely finds himself out of position and has the instincts and field vision to read plays and react quickly. This disciplined approach allows him to be a consistent presence on the field and a reliable anchor for his defense. His impressive stats back this up, as Zak led the entire state in tackles this past season with an astounding 159 stops.

While Zak excels at evading blockers to make plays in space, one area of growth for him would be his ability to use his hands more effectively to shed blocks, especially against offensive linemen. Adding this layer to his game will allow him to be even more disruptive at the next level.

Zak has two Division I offers from Bryant and Wagner, both of which recognize his potential as a cornerstone of their defenses. His blend of size, physicality, and discipline makes him a traditional-style linebacker who can bring toughness and reliability to a college defense. With his proven production and upside, he’s poised to stand out at the next level.

Zak Darwish Zak Darwish 6'0" | 215 lbs | LB Ramapo | 2025 State NJ is one of the clear favorites to make a big, momentum changing play for Ramapo this weekend. Zak has been purely electric since the season began, as he’s amassed 131 tackles, 2 sacks, and forced 3 fumbles. You will hear Zak’s name on the speaker quite often throughout the matchup. Especially in the trenches, Zak delivers flawless tackles and can absolutely blow up a plays forward progress by either taking on the lead blocker or bringing the hit to the ball carrier. Another instinctual defender on the list, Zak picks up on the flow of the play very quickly and can then dig his foot into the ground to shoot the gap and bring the runner down for a minimal gain. Zak is built strong, as you can tell he put a ton of work in in the weight room this offseason so he can dominate his opponents. Zak deserves D1 interest, and hopefully schools start noticing him after this weekend’s performance.

Zak Darwish Zak Darwish 6'0" | 215 lbs | LB Ramapo | 2025 State NJ is on a mission to get involved in every tackle possible this season. In his latest effort, Zak racked up his stats by bringing the ball carrier down 16 times. Built as an athletic, powerful linebacker, standing at 6’0″ and 215 lb Zak can take command of the center of the field and make it a barrier that is not easily broken. Zak consistently delivers punishing hits to opposing ball carriers, rarely letting them get away once their within his grasps. However, what impresses me the most in how Zak plays the position is how quickly he reacts to the play and the speed he has as he moves laterally across the field. Zak is one of the quicker linebackers that I have seen when he scrapes laterally and then charges upfield. Not only has he demonstrated a strong ability to fill the gaps, but has also proved to be an asset downfield as his speed allows him to chase RBs down from behind. Zak deserves some D1 looks.

Zak is a 6’0”, 210-pound off-ball linebacker and a tackling machine. He broke the single-season school record with 23 tackles in one game. Indeed, his highlight tape showcases this prowess.

Notably, Zak’s thick, muscular frame stands out. Moreover, his standout trait is his change of direction. He attacks downhill and takes on different angles effectively. Additionally, his ability to tackle in space and pursue the football is impressive. Zak’s wrestling background further shows in his ability to fight through blocks.

Although he doesn’t have a Division I offer yet, Zak has collegiate potential. His best season is likely ahead, and an offer seems imminent.