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To Watch For
There are several linebackers poised for big jumps in 2026 after flashing strong traits or production. Fairmont Senior’s Jared Rhodes and Philip Barbour’s Mason Jones both showed strong instincts and playmaking ability, with Jones overcoming a smaller frame through production. Lincoln’s Connor Rice emerged as a reliable interior presence, reading and reacting well as a true fixer inside the box.
Ritchie County’s Aidan Compton and South Harrison’s Landon Ross bring that same tough, central-state linebacker mold, while Frankfort’s Gunnar Bradshaw was a key piece on a state championship defense. Poca’s Corey Cook and Tug Valley’s Cane Thompson have already produced at high levels and should continue to do so. Other names to track include Wheeling Central’s Dustin Sanner, South Charleston’s Robert Miller, Hurricane’s Jaxson Rappold, Parkersburg’s Devin Widman, and Winfield’s Clayton Cramer.
Hybrids
West Virginia consistently produces athletic linebackers who can operate in space, and this group highlights that versatility. Linsly’s Cole Kendzerski plays fast with strong tackling ability and range, thriving outside the box. Winfield’s Carson Samples is lighter but makes up for it with toughness and instincts, consistently creating disruption.
Linsly’s Preston Hartley showed the ability to move all over the field—inside, outside, and off the edge—while Riverside’s Jaion Tucker offers a similar blend of size, length, and versatility. Hurricane’s Devon Short is an underrated name who produced in coverage and as a pass rusher, showing true three-phase linebacker ability. Bridgeport’s Brody Jeran has a legitimate frame with plenty of good tape as well.
Mikes
The 2027 class is loaded with traditional inside linebackers who thrive between the tackles. Greenbrier East’s Keshawn Bland is a true run-stopper with size and instincts, while Morgantown’s Kane Williams anchored a championship defense with physical downhill play. Teammate Collin Andis continues to develop in a strong system and brings similar traits. Doddridge County’s Dayne Murphy is another tough-nosed tackler that secures the middle of a defense.
Oak Hill’s Cade Compton is a physical two-way player who combines aggression with athleticism, and Mingo Central’s Taegan Hackney fits the mold of a true defensive centerpiece—sideline-to-sideline with consistent production. Bluefield’s Chadney Stanback brings size and versatility, while Cabell Midland’s Eli Thompson has the frame and film to draw next-level attention. Martinsburg’s Brian Dick, though known offensively, has the tools to translate defensively as well.
5. Parker Bigelow
Fairmont Senior’s Parker Bigelow (6’2”, 210) was the centerpiece of a strong defensive unit, averaging around 10 tackles per game. He combines solid size with excellent instincts, consistently diagnosing plays quickly and triggering downhill. His ability to read and react gives him a step on most opponents.
He also brings versatility, showing the ability to impact plays across the field whether inside the box or working laterally. With his combination of size, awareness, and consistency, Bigelow profiles as a reliable linebacker at the next level.
4. Tavion Woods
George Washingtons’s Tavion Woods (6’1”, 210) was one of the most productive linebackers in the state (formerly at Riverside), racking up over 130 tackles. He plays fast downhill, closing space quickly and using his size and athleticism to control the middle of the defense.
His ability to work laterally and use his hands effectively makes him feel like a wall to opposing offenses. With continued development, his production and physical style should continue to translate.
3. Carson Treadway
Independence’s Carson Treadway (6’2”, 210) is one of the best pure athletes in the state. His length, speed, and versatility allow him to impact the game in multiple ways, whether playing in space, working inside, or rushing off the edge.
That all-around ability gives him one of the highest ceilings in the group. As he continues to refine his role, his athletic profile alone will draw significant next-level attention.
2. Gabe Martin
Bridgeport’s Gabe Martin (6’0”, 200) battled injuries in 2025 but still showed why he was so highly regarded. He brings elite range, true sideline-to-sideline speed, and the ability to cover effectively in space.
His physicality also stands out—he’s one of the hardest hitters in the class. With a healthy season, Martin has the tools to re-establish himself as one of the top linebackers and attract attention across multiple levels.
1. Ilias King
Huntington’s Ilias King (6’1”, 220) holds the top spot as a true traditional mike linebacker. He plays with strong instincts, solid range, and consistent downhill aggression, making him a steady presence in the middle of the defense.
King diagnoses plays quickly, fills gaps with authority, and finishes with sound tackling technique. His reliability and well-rounded skillset make him an ideal fit for programs looking for a dependable, high-level linebacker.