Our final Maple Grove Stock Riser, linebacker Jacob Wrbanek has one of the best frames in the state when talking linebackers, as the 6’3, 220 lber. has an long, powerful build that passes the eye test and will be able to develop into monstrous form in a college S&C room. He also knew how to use it against both JV and varsity competition last fall, demonstrating closing speed and pace when shooting gaps, patience when pursuing the ball, as well as good pursuit angles, and instincts in coverage and can read, react, and step in front of second level throws for INTs and tipped passes. Wrbanek also works off blocks quickly and is a technically sound tackler, and although I already mentioned it, I really like his closing speed for a bigger ‘backer. Additionally, he reports a 4.1 short-shuttle, and COD ability was backed up at last December’s PRzMN Stock-Up Showcase, where he also posted a nearly  9′ broad jump as well. PRzMN also heard good things from the summer camp circuit performances, which helped earn him recruiting attention from NDSU, SDSU, Dartmouth, Wisconsin, Kansas State, Minnesota, and UNI when August 1st rolled around. These components helped Wrbanek pull off an almost 20-spot jump in Monday’s 2025 PRzMN rankings update from #49 to #30 overall. Lots to prove in 2023 for the rising junior LB, but after speaking to him for a while at the PRzMN Showcase, I can say with certainty that he has the motivation and determination to get it done.

Similar to Staples – Wrbanek is a long, athletic linebacker who excels in space, where he can use his athletic ability. Splitting time on the varsity and junior varsity – a great accomplishment for a sophomore on a 6A state championship team – he showed great footwork, especially when moving laterally down the line of scrimmage. As he sees more time on varsity, because of his 6’3 frame, he will need to focus on lowering his hips when engaging with blockers and ball carriers. He does a nice job using his hands, long reach, and quickness to keep blockers away from his body. Assuming he puts on some good weight during the off-season, he will become even more effective at the point of attack.

Just rounding out the Top-10 of the LBs and Top-50 overall, Maple Grove’s Jacob Wrbanek is a part of a loaded crop of sophomores at the defending 6A state champions and shows of the biggest upside and potential to skyrocket up these rankings as any LB and overall recruit in the class. The young buck came to December’s PRzMN Showcase and clocked in at a legit 6’4 and 205 pounds, adding a nearly sub 5 second 40, a 4.62 short-shuttle, an 8’8″ broad jump, and a 7.08 L-drill. A varsity contributor in ’22 who primarily played in the JV ranks, he showed that he could cover ground from the second level of the defense, flying out of his stance and onto ball carriers toes at/behind the LOS or out on the edge. Also had a couple nice plays of pass defense and plays with high intensity and a strong motor. As mentioned, he’s poised for a breakout season in 2023 and has a great chance of flying up these rankings come next update.