Jackson Mathews Jackson Mathews 5'11" | 220 lbs | LB/RB Reno | 2027 State NV is a highly productive linebacker who already eclipsed the 100-tackle mark last season. At 5’11, 220 pounds, he has a sturdy build that translates well to physical play in the box. Mathews thrives as a run stopper, using his strength and technique to shed blocks and control gaps. His ball-hawking ability stands out, as he consistently finds his way to the football. With a violent tackling style and proven production, he’s a dependable defensive anchor.

Mathews has been one of Reno’s best playmakers on both sides of the ball with 71 tackles, 2 sacks, and 6 TFLs on defense and a team-leading 593 rushing yards and 8 TDs on offense. He’s a physical, downhill defender that’s quick to trigger to the football and has the athleticism to read-and-react in a hurry. He explodes to the ball off the snap, plays well with his eyes, and can shed and elude blockers around the LOS. Mathews rounds out the state’s top-10 tackles leaders.

Matthews had a massive game on both sides of the ball in Reno’s 25-19 season opening win over Palo Verde on Friday. The junior RB/LB racked up 216 rushing yards and 4 total TDs and posted 10.5 tackles and 2 TFLs in the win. He’s a physical playmaker on both sides of the ball that looks improved athletically and should continue to produce at a high level for Reno. Matthews is a top-100 prospect in his class.

Matthews broke out as a playmaker on both sides of the ball for Reno as a sophomore. Rushed for over 600 yards and 8 TDs on offense and totaled another 33 tackles and 4 TFLs from his LB spot last fall. He’s a physical kid with a projectable frame and strength to play LB at the next level. He’s a downhill thumper that can fill between the OTs and make disruptive plays behind the LOS as a run defender. Needs to work on his technique and footwork (false steps) but offers potential to develop into one of the top tacklers in northern Nevada over the coming seasons. Look for Matthews to build on his strong sophomore campaign.