2027 LB Eli Huffman has been an under-the-radar linebacker to watch for Ripley and has gotten off to a strong start to his senior season. He has a good 6’1 200 frame at middle linebacker and immediately stands out on tape from a physical standpoint. Huffman gets downhill quickly and is a thumping tackler, meeting ball carriers with intent and delivering a blow when he arrives. He also has good quickness flowing to the football and getting vertical. Huffman is playing himself into some D2 opportunities in my eyes and deserves a close look from college programs.

BREAKOUT CANDIDATE

Getting 2027 LB Eli Huffman back at full strength could be one of the biggest additions to Ripley’s defense this season. Despite appearing in just three games as a junior, Huffman still finished sixth on the team in tackles, highlighting the type of production he brings when healthy. He plays downhill with a physical mindset, works through traffic well, and closes quickly once he identifies the football. If Huffman stays healthy throughout his senior season, expect him to be a leader of the Vikings’ defense and one of the more productive linebackers in Class AAA.