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’26 West Virginia Defensive Linemen to Watch
ABC Order
Max Bohren
6’4″ 210 lbs | Huntington HS | 2026
“Has great length and an explosive get-off. Carries a thicker build more typical of a true defensive end rather than a pure edge rusher. Well-coached and no surprise to see his college recruitment uptick.”
Kaidyn Johnson
6’2″ 220 lbs | Parkersburg South HS | 2026
“Another true defensive end. Plays with impressive patience, controlling gaps in the run game, and shows plenty of aggression when rushing the passer. A well-rounded, complete end.”
Kalum Kiser
6’2″ 235 lbs | Princeton HS | 2026
“One of the most athletic front-line players in the entire state, and it shows up immediately on film. His acceleration off the edge is among the best, consistently beating tackles for quick sacks. Also holds up extremely well against the run.”
Jordan Kovacs
6’1″ 230 lbs | Martinsburg HS | 2026
“A great all-around player. While a bit undersized, he more than makes up for it with a high motor and excellent short-area quickness. Versatile enough to be moved around to different spots on the field.”
James Ludwig
6’3″ 230 lbs | Oak Hill HS | 2026
“Really broke out during the camp circuit. Possesses excellent length and a strong build. The biggest leap has come from his explosive testing numbers while carrying that size. Projects as a powerful defensive end on the field.”
Jamarques Manns
6’4″ 270 lbs | Woodrow Wilson HS | 2026
“A player who really broke out in 2024. Moves extremely well for his size and could easily project to either side of the ball at the college level.”
Aryn McPherson
6’3″ 310 lbs | Huntington HS | 2026
“A great two-way player who moves well for his size and consistently controls the middle of the field, taking on double teams and focused attention. Capped it off with an MVP performance at the Showcase.”
Jaevin Papalii
6’4″ 240 lbs | Fairmont Senior HS | 2026
“Rapidly moving up a lot of boards. Flashed plenty of potential in 2024 and should take an even bigger step forward in 2025. Has next-level length and size, and will only get better as his technique and skill set continue to develop.”
Xavier Patterson
6’1″ 270 lbs | Nitro HS | 2026
“A player who has produced consistently since his freshman year. Has bulked up on the interior but still possesses the burst of a pure edge rusher. A true high-level disruptive force.”
Zevon Shipman
6’1″ 275 lbs | Morgantown HS | 2026
“Perhaps the strongest player on the list. His interior line film is outstanding—consistently shedding blocks and clogging running lanes.”
Frankie Urias
6’3″ 210 lbs | Martinsburg HS | 2026
“More of an edge rusher type, but with his length and solid weight, he shines in multiple facets. Plays with great leverage and technique, and has a lot of potential as he continues to add weight.”
Liam Waldeck
6’2″ 240 lbs | Wheeling Park HS | 2026
“Likely to appear on our offensive line rankings, he stands out for his overall athleticism. Moves well and consistently stays ahead of his opponents. Also a multi-sport standout.”