Christopher Barrino possesses the versatility and skill set that aligns perfectly with the modern game of football. At 5’10” and 190 pounds, he embodies the hybrid linebacker/safety role that has become increasingly prevalent. This role demands the ability to excel both in coverage and against the run, and Barrino showcases solid athleticism and exceptional read-and-react skills to fulfill these responsibilities.While he may not be the most explosive player when attacking downhill, Barrino compensates with his keen understanding of offensive schemes and his ability to quickly diagnose plays. His room for growth in this role is evident, particularly in adding more mass to his frame to excel as a true linebacker/safety hybrid. Improving his ability to shed blocks and maintain leverage against offensive linemen will be crucial in maximizing his effectiveness, especially as teams employ lighter defensive boxes to counter the run.Barrino’s tackling proficiency is a standout aspect of his game, characterized by his sure tackling and ability to wrap up ball carriers effectively. However, refining his pad level and playing lower will enhance his ability to navigate space and make tackles with even greater efficiency. As a breakout candidate in the 2025 class, Barrino’s continued development and refinement in these areas will undoubtedly draw attention from scouts and coaches alike.
 

Lining up adjacent to Abdul Aziz is fellow linebacker Christopher Barrino Christopher Barrino 5'11" | 205 lbs | LB West Orange | 2025 State NJ . Barrino is the returning team leader in tackles with 72 (6 solo), along with 10 TFL, 2 sacks, 1 Int, and 1 blocked kick. For whatever reason Barrino appears taller to me on film than what he is listed as. He is relatively fluid and pursues plays well; however, Barrino is, in my opinion, best when he is playing a north-south game. He can accelerate with the best of them and be disruptive with that full-head of steam. Another, perhaps instinctual, thing Barrino does well is get his hands up to disrupt passing lanes and deflect passes. I would encourage Barrino to continue to work pursuit angles. Given his motor and ability to achieve top speed quickly, if his angles improve so will his tackle total and, more importantly, his tackle for loss total.

Christopher Barrino Christopher Barrino 5'11" | 205 lbs | LB West Orange | 2025 State NJ is the youngest player from West Orange on this list, but has already made a huge impact for the team. With 85 total tackles and 4 sacks in his sophomore year, Christopher plays aggressively. He uses his hands to throw blockers away and wrap up the runner while he closes on them quickly. Christopher is also very impressive from a pass coverage perspective. He opens his hips up and drops into his zone making it very challenging for the QB to throw any quick slants his direction. A strong defensive unit, Christopher is another linebacker from this team you need to worry about. He will be a powerhouse these next two seasons as he puts on more size and strength.

The West Orange Mountaineers have a standout at LB to go along with teammate and stud DB Chaas McCoy Chaas McCoy 5'11" | 180 lbs | DB West Orange | 2024 State NJ . Returning to build off his 87 tackle (13 for loss), 4 sack, and 1 FR campaign is 5’10” 190lb Christopher Barrino Christopher Barrino 5'11" | 205 lbs | LB West Orange | 2025 State NJ .

Barrino is smooth and moves very well in space. His hips change direction well and he always seems to be in position to make a play on the ball or the ball carrier. He possesses great closing speed, which is helpful as he reads the flow of the offense. Barrino is a “kill-shot” guy. He loves to make a big hit on the QB and clean up piles. Colleges will love to see his film and begin to gush about it as he adds more solo tackles and pass coverage clips in the mix.

West Orange has some unfinished business this season. The Mountaineers will rely on Barrino and company will look to settle the score in 2023.