Dykes is a long, physical defender who plays with edge presence and discipline. He reacts quickly to RPOs and closes downhill with bad intentions. Against the run, he holds outside leverage, forces plays back inside, and limits big gains with solid open-field tackles. Dkyes is comfortable playing downhill, willing to take on blocks, and shows good timing when fitting gaps. As a pass rusher, he flashes the ability to affect the quarterback off the edge in his highlights. What he needs to work on is defining his long-term position for the next level. It’s either him adding strength if he stays at linebacker or showing more range and coverage reps if he transitions to safety.

BJ Dykes BJ Dykes 6'4" | 180 lbs | LB Frederick | 2027 State MD is a 6’3″ edge prospect who flashes quickness off the snap and is a reliable, sure tackler in space. He plays aggressively at the point of attack, showing the strength and toughness to fight through blocks and still finish plays. Dykes currently holds one FBS offer from Syracuse, and with a full season ahead of him, expect his name to generate even more buzz during the 2026 season.

BJ Dykes BJ Dykes 6'4" | 180 lbs | LB Frederick | 2027 State MD : Lengthy, Versatile Defender with Hybrid Traits and All-Field Impact

BJ Dykes BJ Dykes 6'4" | 180 lbs | LB Frederick | 2027 State MD is a dynamic, hybrid defender who brings the size of a safety and the physicality of an outside linebacker. At 6-foot-2 with long arms and a rangy frame, Dykes is the kind of modern defensive weapon who can line up anywhere and make plays all over the field.

In coverage, his length is a major asset, disrupting passing lanes and using his reach to bat down throws. On film, he flashes impressive instincts, including a standout play where he closed on a receiver’s route and rode him out of bounds with textbook physicality.

Against the run, Dykes is equally impactful. He plays the edge with purpose, showing the ability to set the perimeter, fight through blocks in the trenches, and rack up tackles for loss with his aggressive downhill style.

Dykes earned his first Division I offer from Syracuse this past May. As he continues to fly around the field for Frederick High School this season, expect more college programs to take notice of his versatility, motor, and potential.

Dykes is a long, rangy athlete who plays a versatile rover for the team. You can find him lining up at both safety and outside linebacker. His highlights demonstrate that he possesses instincts as a defender, is disciplined against misdirection, and is effective against both the run and the pass. Dykes is very comfortable in pass coverage and is more than willing to make contact at the catch point.

What I’d like to see from him this year: I’d like to see him become more of a physical tackler this season. He’s a little on the lean side, so if he gained some weight and is stronger, that would be a plus. I’d also like to see how he handles engaging and shedding plots. But hey, it’s not his fault that he’s too quick for linemen to get their hands on. Though he’s still developing, his length and movement skills make him an intriguing hybrid defender.