It’s entirely possible that Chaffin grows into an edge rusher, something we never thought we’d say just six months ago. The lengthy linebacker has good instincts and excellent athleticism, and as a junior, his production took a major step forward. I’d like to see him in a camp setting to evaluate his bend around the edge, but as a pure linebacker, he continues to impress, as well.

Elijah Chaffin Elijah Chaffin 6'4" | 215 lbs | LB Davie County | 2027 State NC has a massive assignment tonight, but as the No. 4 linebacker in his junior class, he looks more than ready for the challenge. At 6’4” and over 200 pounds, he checks every box physically — long, rangy, explosive, and built like a future Power-4 defender. Chaffin plays with a confident downhill style, but he also has the fluidity to slide in space and match up with athletic backs or mobile quarterbacks.

Tonight, Davie County will need every bit of that versatility. Jack Britt brings size, speed, and a dangerous run game that forces linebackers to stay disciplined and win their matchups. Chaffin’s ability to take on blocks, maintain gap integrity, and make drive-killing tackles will be the difference in whether Davie can control the tempo. If he plays to his ranking and physical tools, he has the potential to completely tilt the field for his defense — and elevate Davie County into the next round.

A 2-time All Conference selection, Elijah had a strong season individually for the War Eagles last season. Those efforts have started to be noticed by college football programs this year, with Elijah picking up his first offer from Marshall University at the end of January. East Carolina and Appalachian State have followed up with offers, and there is interest from other Division 1 programs. Elijah has an elite skill of pattern reading when in pass coverage from his middle linebacker position that you don’t see often at this level. He comes downhill with good speed in the running game, and he tackles with a big impact. I think he’s just getting started from a recruiting perspective, and there’s a lot to like about his game.

Chaffin followed up a good freshman season with a fantastic sophomore season. He’s the current 4A tackles leader and has a forced fumble, fumble recovery, interception, and blocked field goal this season. It looks like his season is going to be over, as Davie County doesn’t look like it will make the playoffs.

Chaffin has been a man on a mission this offseason in an attempt to continue to sculpt his body and get stronger and faster. He’s put on over 20 pounds this summer, which should help him against the run in 2024. He has some huge upside as both a run defender and in pass coverage, and sophomore year could be a huge step forward for a guy we already like a lot.