Now Max did get to play a little bit of varsity, but I believe 2026 is the breakout year where we see LB1 consistently contributing on Fridays. 7 of the top 8 tacklers for the Greendale defense graduates, leaving plenty of open spots around the front seven open. That is where Ward will be able to step in and contribute. The 6’2″ 185 lbs LB is showing the instincts for the position. He flows with the play, maintaining his gap and coming down to meet the ball in the hole. He is learning how to navigate through all the trash in the front seven and has flashed the ability to keep himself clean of the hands of OL. Size, instincts, and range are great building blocks to work with. I’m looking for a breakout year from Maximus this fall.

Now Max did get to play a little bit of varsity, but I believe 2026 is the breakout year where we see LB1 consistently contributing on Fridays. 7 of the top 8 tacklers for the Greendale defense graduates, leaving plenty of open spots around the front seven open. That is where Ward will be able to step in and contribute. The 6’2″ 185 lbs LB is showing the instincts for the position. He flows with the play, maintaining his gap and coming down to meet the ball in the hole. He is learning how to navigate through all the trash in the front seven and has flashed the ability to keep himself clean of the hands of OL. Size, instincts, and range are great building blocks to work with. I’m looking for a breakout year from Maximus this fall.