One of my favorite hidden gems at the LB position in the Class of 2024 is the Slinger product. Brayden has a solid 6’1″ 210 lbs frame, and he uses it to be a stout run defender between the tackles. You see it a couple times in this week’s highlights where he just shoulders his way through block attempts. Brayden is a wrap up tackler, but doesn’t shy away from chances to deliver the big hit. We see a little bit of his range to the sideline as well in his chase down tackles of jet sweeps and the QB breaking contain. Keep an eye on the highlights of Brayden this season.

Our top junior defensive player in the county is Slinger LB Brayden Hayes Brayden Hayes 6'1" | 210 lbs | LB Slinger | 2024 State WI . Hayes is growing a solid frame, checking in at 6’1″ 210 lbs. That frame comes with excellent play speed. That speed also gives him the ability to be a devastating blitzer. Brayden is easily able to play sideline to sideline and make chase down tackles. The junior also has a high football IQ. He instantly transitions his read steps right into getting in position to make stops, and that quick processing allows him to look even faster. The Slinger standout also makes it look easy moving through the front seven. Hayes can also effectively play in coverage. He can run with TEs/RBs and that high IQ shows up in pass coverage as well. Brayden is a hidden gem at the LB position. He is still looking for that first offer.