Another CR metro leader from last season, senior linebacker Kayden James Kayden James 5'11" | 215 lbs | LB/RB Cedar Rapids Jefferson | 2026 State IA totaled 73 tackles last season to finish fourth in all of Class 4A. He did so in just seven games. If James can stay healthy for the entirety of the season, he’ll have a shot at over 100 tackles this fall, and he’ll look to add to his 11.5 tackles-for-loss.

James is the clear leader of the Jefferson defense, and standing at a stout 5’11” and 215 pounds, he would be an excellent fit at a D1 walk-on or scholarship athlete in D2 or NAIA.

With 73 tackles last season, Kayden James Kayden James 5'11" | 215 lbs | LB/RB Cedar Rapids Jefferson | 2026 State IA led Jefferson and the Cedar Rapids Metro in total tackles in 2024 — in only seven games played.

James is a key part as to why Jefferson made a resurgence into the playoff conversation last season. A hard-hitter with a non-stop motor, James is the 100%, all go, all the time type of linebacker a program like Jefferson needed to propel its defense forward.

Clearly a film junkie, James’ attention to details is recognizable in where his eyes go on defense. He finds the ball, and proceeds to make opposing ball-carriers not want to see him again with big hits.

Kayden James Kayden James 5'11" | 215 lbs | LB/RB Cedar Rapids Jefferson | 2026 State IA has been a central piece toward Cedar Rapids Jefferson’s turnaround over the last two seasons. In 2024, James recorded 110 tackles, 11.5 TFLs, and 3 forced fumbles. James is one of the hardest hitting defenders in the division, and his relentless effort in pursuit and impressive power helped him gain a knack for knocking the ball out of the ball-carrier’s hands. James isn’t a rangy defender, but he does a great job at chasing down the runner even if he gets past him on the outside, playing with good instincts and he’s equally effective rushing downhill or covering sideline-to-sideline range. James is a sure tackler who’s been extremely reliable in the run-defense, and as Cedar Rapids Jefferson continues to improve, James could see much more looks his way for the impact he’s had on the field in 2025.

James enjoyed a heck of a junior season. The linebacker racked up 73.0 tackles (46 solo, 11.5 TFL), the second most on the squad. James’ 11th-grade highlight video reveals a high-motor performer on defense and special teams. The first clip shows him sprinting downfield on kick coverage and blowing up the returner, causing a fumble. James runs well and takes good angles to the ball. He diagnoses plays quickly and then does his job. James might not fit the standard height requirements for some programs at the next level, but dismissing him for that would be a mistake.