By Apollo Lundin
Linebackers are arguably the most important three positions on the gridiron. Usually, the captains of the defense, these positions need to have the ability to stop the run, pass, motions and options. While these kids are only rising seniors in high school, can someone like Tyler Atkinson or Talanoa Ili become the future prototype for linebackers in college football and beyond?
Tyler Atkinson
Loganville, Ga. (Grayson)
No. 2 LB (nation), No. 2 LB (Georgia)
Atkinson looks to be one of, if not the best, middle linebacker in this class. Atkinson is patient, knows how to read the quarterback’s eyes and has blazing speed to get in the backfield. I wouldn’t be surprised if he gets off-ball or edge snaps. This kid is versatile and knows how to get stops. He should be a future NFL draft pick and a great get for any collegiate program.
Atkinson participated in the 2025 Navy All-American Bowl and is a Georgia 6A state champion. In 2021, he became the first eighth grader to be invited to the Navy All-American Bowl.
Late last year, Atkinson unofficially visited Georgia, Ohio State, Texas and Miami. In January, he attended Junior Day at Georgia, which is where he is projected to go.
Talanoa Ili
Kahuku, Hawaii (Kahuku)
No. 3 LB (nation), No. 1 LB (Hawaii)
Ili is a patient and powerful outside linebacker, and is great at stopping the run, having a knack for getting to the ball carrier. Although on film he does not look the fastest, Ili was recorded at 20 mph in a game in September. Ili has sound fundamentals and uses them when needed. He always plays under control, and he has the power to knock anyone down. He lines up in many different spots, but he is best used against the pass when lined up in the middle at the next level.
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Ili was invited to the 2026 Polynesian Bowland also runs track.
Ili has official visits scheduled to Oklahoma, Notre Dame, USC, Texas and Oregon.
Brayden Rouse
Marietta, Ga. (Kell)
No. 4 LB (nation), No. 3 LB (Georgia)
Rouse is dynamic and considers himself an ATH on his Hudl. Rouse is quick, patient, smart and powerful, making him a great asset for any defense. Rouse shows great coverage skills, a knack for getting to the ball and great awareness that allows him to be involved in every play.
Rouse is a multi-sport athlete who participates in track and field events, and plays basketball.
Rouse is scheduled to visit Alabama, Michigan, Texas and Tennessee.
Cincere Johnson
Cleveland, Ohio (Glenville)
No. 6 LB (nation), No. 1 LB (Ohio)
A patient and fundamental run-stopper, Johnson does not do anything flashy. Johnson waits for the play to develop before rushing into the backfield to make stops. Johnson has great play recognition, making him great for the inside-backer position. He shows flashes of quick bursts and possesses great pursuit skills. He seems to have a nice understanding of angles, but it might take some time for him to be a true impact starter at the next level.
Johnson was named the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year by Cleveland.com.
Johnson has official visits scheduled to Penn State, Alabama, Oklahoma, Ohio State and USC.
Daquives Beck
Carthage, Texas (Carthage)
No. 9 LB (nation), No. 1 LB (Texas)
“Qui” Beck might not be the most polished player on this list, but he is still very capable of becoming an impact linebacker at the collegiate level. Beck is quick and strong, a perfect combination for coming off the edge. Beck is a Texas 4A Division-II state champion, hoping to carry his success into college.
Beck also runs track, reaching the regional qualifying round in the 4×400 relay.
Beck has an official visit scheduled to Baylor. He previously visited Oklahoma State and Penn State.
