Mid-Season Defensive Diamonds: HTX Senior Stock-Risers

<p>Many schools are officially halfway through the 2025 season, and while offenses have been much of the focal point throughout the state, the Houston defenses have come out heavy hitting. From nose tackles to high-field defensive backs, the class of 2026, specifically has demonstrated dominance. An intriguing story line this season has been the breakout from under the radar seniors, so let's check out 5 from across the HTX area.</p>    <p class="text-gray-700">With a long powerful frame, Crites is violent with heavy hands at the point of attack and has been a dynamic game wrecker for the Mustangs' defense so far. It has seemed as if the true defensive end has lived in the backfield all season, with several sacks, hurries, and a large number of TFLs. Jordyn showcases the ability to bend and break down in the backfield, which combined with his high motor and athleticism, leads to great production in the pass and run game. His best move at the line of scrimmage is pure power with heavy hands, but he shows the ability to swim and dodge as well. The Tulane commit has unreal potential with his combination of size and power, and now that he really has come into his own this season, watch out opposing offenses.</p>      <p class="text-gray-700">One of the best all-around edge rushers in the state this season, Thompson has been electric with explosiveness and nasty finishing ability. Thompson flexes inside and out the tackle, lining up both upright and with a hand in the dirt. Cullen displays a powerful get-off, sound technique, and very solid short-area quickness for his large frame. Through just five contests, he has already accumulated 19 total tackles, 8 TFLs, and 3.5 sacks. Currently the highest ranked commit in Texas State history, Thompson will be imperative in the Grizz' goal to get hot and make a run in the playoffs.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/_Cullenthompson/status/1970524228626919654 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">The Sharks' senior leader has been a versatile weapon all over the box for the defense. Projecting as an inside backer at the next level, Taylor flashes twitchy hips, good space play, and the ability to fire out of his hips and finish tackles. Langhtston has also flashed the ability to bend off the edge and affect the backfield. Over the last two weeks, he has totaled 20 tackles, 2 TFLs, and 2 sacks. Heating up at the right time, Taylor has played a big role in the Sharks' strong, gritty start to the season. He will play a key role down the stretch for their playoff hopes and expect his recruitment process to rapidly ramp up.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/thelanghstontay/status/1972028932938748335 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">The Coogs' have a special senior leader on their hands in Ward, who projects as a DB at the next level but provides incredible value on D, O, and special teams. Caden flashes elite (4.5) speed, explosive change of direction, and polished body balance control. Also demonstrating great ball skills and positioning, the versatile playmaker has brought down stellar catches at both FS and WR. Ward has been as true of a three-way player as you can find across the nation this season, producing 27 tackles, 2 INTs, 513 total yards, and 4 total touchdowns in just five games. As Caden prepares to take his talents to the Army Black Knights, he will be crucial to the Cougars' success in all facets of the game.</p>      <p>It's been Henderson Island for the Eagles' star man-up corner thus far this season. The unique combination of length and 4.4 speed he boasts allows him to recover when beaten and make a play on any 1-on-1 ball. James displays extreme polish and technique at the corner position, showcasing fluid hips and consistent footwork. The lockdown DB often runs receivers' routes for them. Henderson has also given some value in the return game with his great speed and field vision. Already contributing a handful of PBUs and an INT this season, he will be the leader of the CF defense looking for a state title run. Henderson is committed to Rice currently, but Vandy has recently picked up some traction.</p>

Many schools are officially halfway through the 2025 season, and while offenses have been much of the focal point throughout the state, the Houston defenses have come out heavy hitting. From nose tackles to high-field defensive backs, the class of 2026, specifically has demonstrated dominance. An intriguing story line this season has been the breakout from under the radar seniors, so let's check out 5 from across the HTX area.