An instinctive linebacker with elite range, Hochhalter racked up 98 total tackles, 67 solo, and 10 for loss. His nose for the football led to two interceptions, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery. Not just a force on the gridiron, he also excelled in track, placing seventh in the 300m hurdles (42.3) and fifth in the 4×400 relay at state, showcasing his elite athleticism.

Another member of the class of 2025, Hochhalter had an impressive junior season. The 5’11 180-pound middle linebacker / running back accounted for 323 yards and 1 touchdown don the ground on 81 carries. As a linebacker, he accounted for 129 total tackles (72 solo, 57 assisted), 5 TFL, and 2 FF. Hochhalter has very good athletic ability. He has very good speed, acceleration, balance, and good change of direction. His balance really stands out to me, because he keeps running while being knocked around. It takes multiple people to take him down as a RB. He has very strong legs to push the opponent backwards (offensive or defensive). As a RB, he is a downhill bruising back. It takes multiple defenders to take him down. He’ll easily truck over players, and uses his very good stiff arm to knock defenders. He is a mauler. As a LB, he continues his great play. He is a hard hitter, laying the boom on unsuspecting ball carriers. He utilizes a low pad level to out leverage the OL, creating TFL or pressure in the backfield. One play, he shed a couple of blocks and then accelerated downfield to catch the RB. That is the type of player he is. He’ll also punch the ball to create forced fumbles. Hochhalter is a prospect to watch out for next season. I think he’ll break out more as a running back, and continuing to dominate as a linebacker.

Hochhalter is a stock rising backer that has good hands and can drop into coverage and grab a pick. He has good vision being able to read and react quickly, coming up and making a play near the line of scrimmage. In film he is able to not get caught up in the wash and attack downhill, being good at the point of attack and not giving up ground.