An impressive outside linebacker on the rise with impressive length and natural athleticism, Lawless made an impact on a talented Newnan defense as a freshman last year and is bound for a breakout sophomore season in 2025. He plays fast, aggressive, and found a way to consistently make plays in the backfield. In year one, the 6-foot-2 215-pounder made 30 tackles, eight TFLs and four sacks. He opened a lot of eyes as a freshman and could easily earn Power Four offers next year with a big 2025 season. He’s now ranked as the No. 3 LB and the No. 49 overall prospect in the state for the 2028 class.

An active defender with size, toughness, and impressive closing speed, Lawless is an easy Power Four talent who should continue to see his ranking rise in the 2028 class. He shows good instincts, runs well and doesn’t look like a freshman at 6-foot-2 200-pounds. He’s one of the top returning 2028 defenders in the region and is coming off a strong freshman season where he made 30 tackles, eight TFLs and four sacks. Look for his numbers to be even better in 2025.

Ashton Lawless Ashton Lawless 6'2" | 200 lbs | LB Newnan | 2028 State GA turned some heads this fall as a freshman and broke onto the P4 radar as a result. Here is my eval from a few months ago:

“ Ashton Lawless Ashton Lawless 6'2" | 200 lbs | LB Newnan | 2028 State GA  is a super lowkey freshman right now, but he is consistently getting after the QB when on the field and is well-developed for his age. He is already at 6’2 200. He probably projects as an edge rusher right now, but could possibly end up playing off the ball. His speed works in his favor to instantly threaten both shoulders of the blocker. If left untouched, he has the closing speed to arrive at the football before the play can even develop. Still developing his pad level and winning at the first step, but he battles hard to shed blocks. He is willing to slap fight to keep his chest clean, a tool that he will need as competition stiffens. If he continues producing, he will get the love he deserves on the trail. I believe there is FBS and possibly P4 upside here.”

The 62 200 DE/OLB has great speed off the ball at Newnan. Lawless has a long frame and good speed that makes it tough for bigger OL to get up and get a hat on him. He also has good closing speed in the open field and is a violent tackler and can chase sideline to sideline. He was named 2nd Team All Region DE after recording 8 TFL with 4 sacks this season for the Cougars. Depending on his physical development over the next 3 years I can see him getting next level interest at the LB and the DE position. Stock riser.