What jumps out immediately with Jannsen is his physical play from the inside linebacker spot. If you were going to create the mold for a traditional inside linebacker, Jannsen has many of the qualities coaches like. When he comes downhill, he hits and finishes his tackles. Not just a between-the-tackles thumper, the junior has the speed to make the big hit and play from sideline to sideline. As an offensive tackle, his physical style easily translates to that side of the ball. If he gets his hands on the defender, the defender will most likely be routed the way Janssen wants. He keeps his hips low on both sides of the ball, making moving him off his spot challenging for even the best opponents.

The Stewartville Tigers possessed outstanding size on their 2022 roster and bring a ton of meat back into 2023. They’ll be led on the defensive side of the ball by the massive 6’4, 220 lb. ILB Caleb Jannsen, who makes his debut as a Top Newcomer in the latest PRzMN rankings update at #44 overall. Still waiting on that elusive first offer, Jannsen has visited Northern Illinois, St. Thomas, and Winona State so far this offseason and has been contacted by the likes of Sioux Falls, SDSU, NDSU, Augustana, SMSU, and MSUM. The junior helped the Tigers to a 10-1 record in 2022 and posted 45 tackles, 6 TFLs, 2 sacks, and 2 fumble recoveries while aiding Stewie to a district championship, section championship, and state quarterfinal appearance. While manning the middle of the defense, Jannsen laid some massive hits on opposing ball carriers while showing off solid instincts and the vision to see and take space around the LOS when working into the backfield. This includes LB stunts, and I also like his range out to the edge of the LOS for a LB of his size. His strong movement skills also came very handy when playing OT, where he could easily cut off opponents and use their momentum and leverage against them using superior footwork and hand usage. He’s a strong kid and knows how to use it. Keep your eyes and ears open for Stewartville prospects these next couple of cycles!