Poole is one of a couple of talented linebackers at Page. He’s versatile, able to line up in multiple spots on the defense, while also playing some as a short-yardage back for the offense. He scored a touchdown in Week 1, while adding nine tackles and a pass deflection. I like him best in pass coverage, and he’s always a threat to pick off a pass or make a play on the ball.

Jesse Poole Jesse Poole 5'10" | 205 lbs | LB/RB Page | 2028 State NC is one of the top all-around athletes in the Class of 2028. While he contributes on both sides of the ball, his biggest impact comes on defense. As a sophomore, Poole stuffed the stat sheet with 73 tackles and three interceptions, consistently making plays all over the field. He also chipped in offensively, scoring a couple of touchdowns and showcasing the versatility that makes him one of the area’s most dynamic young prospects.

Poole is the true definition of a ball player, and he’ll do whatever is asked of him to help the team. He played some linebacker, safety, and running back last season. We like him best at middle linebacker, where he was a balanced defender, playing well against the run and picking off three passes. We think he’ll continue to develop, and we like what we’ve seen so far.

Page struggled to stay in games last year, but when the Pirates were in positive game scripts, Poole was excellent, running for 268 of his 381 total rushing yards in the team’s three wins. Poole has a lot of shiftiness and contact balance in his running style. He gets upfield and knows how to maximize his yardage on each run.