The linebacker position in high school football is a crucial role, often demanding versatility, athleticism, and leadership. This year's crop of top linebackers in Ohio showcases a diverse range of skills and potential, with players from various schools and classifications. Here's a deep dive into some of the state's most promising linebacker prospects, along with my personal insights and commentary.
Judah Blair, Lakota West, Jr.
Judah Blair is a versatile linebacker who can play both inside and outside positions. His four-star status from 247Sports indicates a high level of talent, and his offers from prestigious programs like Indiana, Cincinnati, and North Carolina further solidify his potential. As a sophomore, Blair made a significant impact with 57 tackles, including 25 solo stops and 15.5 tackles for loss (TFL). His ability to make plays behind the line of scrimmage is impressive, and his defensive skills, including three sacks and an interception, demonstrate his all-around capabilities. What makes Blair particularly fascinating is his ability to adapt to different roles, which could make him a valuable asset for any college program.
Mason Cerovac, Olmsted Falls, Sr.
Mason Cerovac is a multi-sport athlete who has been a cornerstone of the Olmsted Falls defense for three years. His leadership and consistency are evident in his junior season stats: 79 tackles, eight TFL, and five sacks. Cerovac's offers from West Virginia, Kent State, and Miami (Ohio) reflect his potential to contribute at the next level. His ability to lead a defense and make impactful plays is notable, and his multi-sport background adds to his appeal. However, one thing that many people don't realize is that Cerovac's versatility extends beyond football; his basketball and lacrosse skills showcase a well-rounded athlete with a strong work ethic.
James Conrad, St. Ignatius, Sr.
James Conrad, a 6-foot-3, 225-pound linebacker, had a strong showing in his senior year with 21 solo tackles and five TFL, including two sacks. His offers from Toledo and Massachusetts indicate a potential for further development. Conrad's physical attributes and on-field performance suggest a player with the strength and agility to excel at the next level. What this really suggests is that with the right coaching and development, Conrad could become a dominant force in college football, especially in a defensive scheme that utilizes his size and speed effectively.
Jahmiere Daniels-Portis, Springfield, Sr.
Jahmiere Daniels-Portis, an All-Ohio selection in Division I, had an outstanding junior season with 88 tackles, 14.5 TFL, five sacks, two interceptions, and six forced fumbles. His offers from Cincinnati and Illinois showcase his potential to excel at the highest level. Daniels-Portis' ability to make plays all over the field is remarkable, and his leadership qualities are evident in his team's success. One thing that immediately stands out is his versatility; Daniels-Portis' ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game, including defense and special teams, makes him a valuable asset for any college program.
Brayton Feister, Archbishop Hoban, Sr.
Brayton Feister, a four-star prospect, had a dominant junior season, earning All-Ohio first-team honors in Division II. His 133 tackles, 39 TFL, 13 sacks, and two interceptions are impressive stats for a linebacker. Feister's ability to rush for over 1,000 yards and score 17 touchdowns as a sophomore showcases his all-around skills. Personally, I think Feister's offers from powerhouse programs like Ohio State, Indiana, Michigan, Oregon, Notre Dame, and USC are well-deserved. His leadership, athleticism, and versatility make him a top-tier prospect, and his potential impact at the college level is undeniable.
Brydon 'Squeak' Feister, Archbishop Hoban, Jr.
Brydon Feister, the younger brother of Brayton, is a force to be reckoned with. As a junior, he earned All-Ohio first-team honors with 110 tackles, 22 TFL, and five sacks. His 6-foot-3, 210-pound frame and two-time state wrestling champion status showcase his physicality and dedication to his craft. Offers from Ohio State, Indiana, Michigan, and Arizona State indicate a bright future. What many people don't realize is that Brydon's wrestling background has likely contributed to his exceptional tackling ability and body control, making him a unique and skilled linebacker prospect.
Karsen Fisher, Nordonia, Sr.
Karsen Fisher, a 6-foot-3, 230-pound linebacker, led the Nordonia defense with 103 tackles, including 51 solo hits, 17 TFL, and three sacks. His ability to block two kicks last year showcases his versatility and impact on special teams. Fisher's offers from Miami (Ohio) and his role as a tight end, with 587 yards and six touchdowns on 32 receptions, highlight his all-around skills. In my opinion, Fisher's potential as a two-way player is a significant advantage, and his ability to contribute in multiple roles could make him a valuable asset for any college program.
Evan Foust, Highland, Sr.
Evan Foust, a multi-sport athlete, made the All-Ohio second team in Division II with 73 tackles and 3.5 sacks. His 255 yards and four touchdowns on 14 receptions at tight end showcase his versatility. Foust's ability to contribute on both sides of the ball is impressive, and his offers from various colleges indicate his potential for success at the next level. One detail that I find especially interesting is that Foust's multi-sport background has likely contributed to his well-rounded skills and ability to adapt to different roles on the field.
Antwoine Higgins, Cincinnati Anderson, Sr.
Antwoine Higgins has been a cornerstone of the Cincinnati Anderson defense, helping the team reach the Division II state finals in 2024 and 2025. His All-Ohio first-team selection last year with 67 tackles, 8.5 TFL, and three sacks showcases his leadership and impact. Higgins' offers from prestigious programs like Alabama, Indiana, Kentucky, and Ole Miss are a testament to his talent. What this really suggests is that Higgins' ability to lead a defense and make game-changing plays has likely caught the attention of top-tier college programs, and his potential for further development is significant.
Tommy Kopec, Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy, Jr.
Tommy Kopec, the younger brother of Joey Kopec, who is now at Rutgers, will be a key player for CVCA. His 61 tackles, five TFL, and three sacks, along with an All-Ohio honorable mention in Division III, showcase his talent. Kopec's ability to make plays and lead his team is evident, and his offers from various colleges indicate his potential for success. One thing that immediately stands out is that Tommy's leadership qualities and on-field performance have likely contributed to his team's success, making him a valuable asset for any program.
Josiah Pouncy, Cincinnati Taft, Sr.
Josiah Pouncy had an outstanding senior year with 126 solo tackles, 186 total tackles, and 42 TFL. His three forced fumbles and pick six, along with an All-Ohio honorable mention in Division IV, showcase his impact on both defense and special teams. Pouncy's commitment to Louisville in February is a significant achievement. What many people don't realize is that Pouncy's ability to make game-changing plays and his leadership qualities have likely contributed to his team's success, making him a valuable asset for any college program.
In conclusion, Ohio's top linebackers for the 2026 season showcase a diverse range of skills and potential. From versatile athletes like Judah Blair and Mason Cerovac to dominant defenders like Brayton Feister and Jahmiere Daniels-Portis, these players are shaping the future of high school football in the state. As an expert commentator, I find it fascinating to see the leadership, athleticism, and versatility on display, and I am excited to see how these players continue to develop and impact their respective college programs.
