Carter Lawless Carter Lawless 6'2" | 250 lbs | OL/DL Somerset | 2030 KY , out of Somerset (KY), walked into the Nashville Who’s Next Camp and looked like he belonged with the high school group from the jump. At 6’3 265, he’s already put together physically for an 8th grader, but what really separates him is how easy he moves. His feet are advanced for his age, and it shows up immediately in his kick slide and ability to stay square and mirror rushers without panic. He consistently kept his hands tight and inside, controlling defenders instead of catching them, and played with a strong, balanced base throughout the day. You don’t often see this level of coordination, bend, and body control from a middle schooler. He was powerful at the point of attack, stayed active with both his hands and feet, and never looked rushed. There’s a reason he’s already holding D1 offers from LSU and Eastern Kentucky. Lawless earned Offensive Line MVP and backed it up rep after rep.

Claiming the number three spot on my list is Carter Lawless Carter Lawless 6'2" | 250 lbs | OL/DL Somerset | 2030 KY , an offensive lineman/defensive lineman at Somerset Middle School. Lawless did an excellent job on all of his reps at the line of scrimmage, proving he was one of the stronger linemen prospects on the field. On top of outstanding strength, Lawless is really good at absorbing contact and overpowering his opponent.

Making his presence known at the line of scrimmage was Carter Lawless Carter Lawless 6'2" | 250 lbs | OL/DL Somerset | 2030 KY , an offensive lineman/defensive lineman at Somerset Middle School that walked away as an MVP. Lawless was unstoppable during positional drills, showing off his great size, speed, and strength on all of his reps. I really liked how Lawless could use his arms to lock down his opponent. This rising talent out of Kentucky is worth watching out for as he begins high school football.

Carter Lawless Carter Lawless 6'2" | 250 lbs | OL/DL Somerset | 2030 KY lived up to the expectations and then some, putting together a strong all-around performance in the trenches. In pass protection, he was outstanding, consistently holding his ground and not allowing defenders to get by him. His technique and awareness stood out, as he stayed disciplined and controlled throughout, giving his quarterback the time and security needed to operate the offense effectively.

He was just as impactful in the run game, where he excelled at opening up lanes for his backs. Time and time again, he created running holes big enough to drive a truck through, showcasing both strength and proper fundamentals at the point of attack. Lawless played with great leverage and consistency, and his fundamentals were evident on every snap. With this kind of performance, he’s definitely a player to keep an eye on Friday nights.

Look at the rosters of all the 8th Grade teams in this year’s KYMSFA BOTR, I feel Region 4 was the deepest and most complete team. However, sometimes that doesn’t guarantee victory. After lighting it up and causing a running clock in its 46-6 victory over Region 3 in the opening game, they ultimately fell to Region 2 in the championship game by the final of 26-24.

As if there was any question who the top 2030 Offensive Lineman in Kentucky was before the tournament, the performance of Carter Lawless Carter Lawless 6'2" | 250 lbs | OL/DL Somerset | 2030 KY this weekend slammed the gavel down. Nothing short of elite. Double digit pancake blocks through the weekend. Relentless motor who looked to completely burry anybody in his path. It’s easy to see why he has early offers from LSU and EKU.

Carter Lawless Carter Lawless 6'2" | 250 lbs | OL/DL Somerset | 2030 KY , coming off a state championship season with Meece Middle School, has already established himself as a standout young prospect. He possesses great size and a prototypical build for a tackle, giving him a natural advantage at the position. Despite his young age, he brings a surprising amount of experience, which shows in his confidence and overall understanding of the game. Lawless plays with poise and control, rarely looking overwhelmed in high-pressure situations. His combination of physical tools and experience sets a strong foundation for continued growth.

On the field, Lawless is a dependable force in both the run and pass game. He uses his size and strength effectively to seal edges and create running lanes, while also holding his ground in pass protection. It’s difficult for defenders to get around him, as he maintains solid positioning and leverage throughout plays. His consistency and physical presence make him a key piece of the offensive line. Moving forward, Lawless has the potential to develop into a dominant tackle as he continues to refine his technique and build on his already impressive skill set.

On the opposite side of the Offensive Line from Foster Thompson Foster Thompson 6'2" | 300 lbs | OL Taylor County | 2029 KY (listed above) was starting Left Guard, Carter Lawless Carter Lawless 6'2" | 250 lbs | OL/DL Somerset | 2030 KY . For the third year in a row, Lawless was named a standout performer for the Kentucky Future Stars team. Out of all the Offensive Linemen on the team, Lawless passed the eye more than anyone else. He did a nice job of staying low and getting his back to the hole. He moved his feet well and stayed engaged with his man to and through the whistle on nearly every play. Interestingly enough, following the game, Lawless made his decision to reclass public. Look for him to come back next year for a fourth and final Kentucky Future Stars event.

Just like his regular season teammate, Christian Alsabeook, Carter Lawless Carter Lawless 6'2" | 250 lbs | OL/DL Somerset | 2030 KY was selected for his third go around with the Kentucky Future Stars. Last year he started at Left Guard and earned Top Performer honors for his play. Another year bigger and better, I see him as a starter again.

It’s safe to say that Carter Lawless Carter Lawless 6'2" | 250 lbs | OL/DL Somerset | 2030 KY is an absolute powerhouse on the 8th-grade level. Lawless, at 6’0,” 250-pounds, and a 2029 slotted at both OT, DE, bench presses three plates already. “Three-plates” is 315-pounds for the lifting in-sophisticates.

– Returner and noted standout off of last year’s 6th grade Kentucky Future Stars team

– Was the starter at Left Guard for the 7th grade Kentucky Future Stars team this year. Loved the physicality and toughness he brought to the game.

– Plays with a very strong base and excellent feet for an offensive lineman at this level. Athletic enough to play Offensive Tackle because of very advanced footwork, quickness and a powerful base