5A’s 2027 LB Class Loaded with Defensive Talent

Florida has long been a hotbed for high school football talent. Year after year, the Sunshine State produces some of the nation's most electric prospects. From game-breaking speed to next-level agility and pure, raw athleticism, Florida athletes consistently set the tone on Friday nights, and college coaches across the country take notice.   With the 2025 season now in the rearview, we're turning our focus to the players whose stock is rising across the state. Every athlete on this list has the tools to play at the next level. Some already hold multiple offers, while others are just beginning to gain traction, but all possess the ability to compete in college football in the right fit.   This group features a mix of nationally regarded standouts and under-the-radar sleepers who deserve serious attention from college programs. Simply put, this list is loaded with difference-makers.   Prep Redzone Florida will continue to support and spotlight these athletes as they chase their goal of playing college football.   [player_tooltip player_id='2168135' first='Mason' last='McCants'] – MLB, Chiles High Height/Weight: 6'0", 200 lbs Season Stats: 133 total tackles, 37 solo, 96 assisted, 6 TFL, 1 sack over 11 games. 4.15 GPA   Scouting Report: McCants is a high-volume middle linebacker who is constantly around the football. He shows excellent instincts, great pursuit, and the ability to make tackles all over the field, racking up 133 total tackles with a high number of assists.   Analysis: McCants projects as a dependable, instinctive middle linebacker with strong production and academics. His high tackle total shows his motor and consistency in the middle of the defense.   [player_tooltip player_id='2178470' first='Randon' last='Manausa'] – MLB, Leon High Height/Weight: 5'11", 205 lbs Season Stats: 121 total tackles, 73 solo, 48 assisted, 11 TFL, 3 sacks over 10 games. 4.0 GPA, 2nd Team All-Big-Bend   Scouting Report: Manausa is a physical and productive middle linebacker who plays with toughness and good quickness. He consistently fills gaps, makes plays in the backfield, and shows strong tackling ability, earning 2nd Team All-Big-Bend honors.   Analysis: Manausa projects as a well-rounded, high-motor linebacker. His solid production, accolades, and strong academics make him a reliable prospect with good upside.   Ky'moni Gordon – OLB, Riverdale High Height/Weight: 5'11", 190 lbs Season Stats: 121 total tackles, 78 solo, 43 assisted, 22 TFL, 6 sacks over 14 games. Offers: Southern University   Scouting Report: Gordon is an explosive and disruptive outside linebacker who plays with great speed and aggression. He consistently creates negative plays, posting an impressive 22 TFL and 6 sacks while leading his team in production over a full 14-game season.   Analysis: Gordon projects as a dynamic, pass-rush capable outside linebacker. His high production and existing college offer highlight his ability to make immediate impacts on defense.   Da'nte Lindsey – ILB/ATH, Gulf Coast High Height/Weight: 6'1", 170 lbs Season Stats: 110 total tackles, 61 solo, 49 assisted, 7 TFL, 1 sack over 11 games   Scouting Report: Lindsey is a long, athletic inside linebacker with excellent range and versatility. He shows good speed and the ability to cover ground quickly, making him effective in both run support and pass coverage.   Analysis: Lindsey projects as a high-upside, multi-skilled linebacker or safety. His athleticism and solid tackling ability give him strong potential to develop into a versatile defender.   Tamaj Woodard – LB, Mainland High Height/Weight: 6'1", 200 lbs Season Stats: 108 total tackles, 72 solo, 36 assisted, 9.5 TFL, 3.5 sacks over 12 games. Offers: 8 Division 1 offers   Scouting Report: Woodard is a physical, well-built linebacker who excels at stopping the run and creating disruption. He shows strong instincts and the ability to make plays behind the line of scrimmage while maintaining consistent production.   Analysis: Woodard projects as a college-ready linebacker with significant interest. His production and 8 Division 1 offers reflect his talent and readiness for the next level.   [player_tooltip player_id='1657157' first='Malachi' last='Moore'] – MLB, Auburndale High Height/Weight: 6'0", 220 lbs Season Stats: 105 total tackles, 51 solo, 54 assisted, 5 TFL, 3.5 sacks over 11 games. 4.1 GPA Offers: 9 Division 1 offers   Scouting Report: Moore is a strong, physical middle linebacker who brings excellent size and power to the position. He is a sure tackler who commands the middle of the field and shows the ability to rush the passer effectively.   Analysis: Moore projects as a stout, productive linebacker with major college interest. His size, production, and 9 Division 1 offers position him as a strong prospect at the position.

Florida has long been a hotbed for high school football talent. Year after year, the Sunshine State produces some of the nation's most electric prospects. From game-breaking speed to next-level agility and pure, raw athleticism, Florida athletes consistently set the tone on Friday nights, and college coaches across the country take notice.