We originally ranked Randle as a safety and liked him well enough there. When it was clear that not only had he changed high school positions, but that colleges wanted him to play in the middle, he rocketed up our rankings board. His game speed is way faster than what he’s run in combine settings, and his instincts are off the charts.

We may eventually move Randle to the linebacker position, as his bread and butter is coming up and hitting in the running game. His game speed far outpaces what he runs off the field, and he can get downhill in a hurry. We were really impressed with his improved coverage skills in 2025, and we’re not surprised he’s getting Power Four looks.

I mistakenly moved Randle down the rankings last update, and his play on the field prompted me to move up back near the top. He’s a big defender who can play multiple spots in the secondary. He’s likely a box safety at the next level, a guy who can come up and stop the run, or match up with bigger receivers and tight ends in coverage.

Randle is an intriguing defensive back that I really like. He’s had a couple of slightly disappointing testing times, but turn on the tape and see that his game speed is so much better than his listed 40. He can fly around the back end and does a ton for Garner Magnet, a team looking to take the next step towards building a consistent winner. He’s the heartbeat of the defense and a guy who could really turn heads as a junior.

AJ Randle AJ Randle 6'2" | 212 lbs | LB Garner | 2027 State NC Steals the Show at Garner 7v7

AJ Randle AJ Randle 6'2" | 212 lbs | LB Garner | 2027 State NC delivered the most dominant performance of the day, powering the Garner Trojans to a tournament championship with his impact felt on both sides of the ball. Whether making plays on offense or locking things down defensively, Randle’s presence was undeniable.

At 6’2″ and pushing 6’3″, 220 pounds, Randle moves with the fluidity and quickness of a skill-position player nearly 50 pounds lighter. His rare blend of size, athleticism, and toughness makes him a dream prospect for college coaches, especially as a potential linebacker at the next level.

Randle currently holds eight Division I offers from programs including Duke, East Carolina, Temple, Troy, Southern Miss, Western Kentucky, Tennessee State, and Bethune-Cookman. With his fearless play style, leadership, and elite playmaking ability, don’t be surprised if his recruitment takes a major jump this fall.