The Class of 2028 in Texas high school football is rich in talent, showcasing diverse skills among young athletes. We evaluate and rank the top five recruits at each position, highlighting players who will impact the field and recruiting.

Below is a list of the top five defensive linemen noted for their performances and potential. Additionally, we have compiled other noteworthy recruits to watch as we approach the exciting fall season of 2025, where these athletes can further demonstrate their skills and possibly elevate their rankings.

Top Five 2028 Defensive Linemen

#1. Noah Ross, DT, Richardson, 6-4 / 295

Given Ross’s remarkable physical attributes and skills at such a young age, it is unsurprising that several prestigious college football programs have shown interest. Institutions such as Auburn, Florida State, SMU, Texas Tech, and USC have extended offers to him. Although there is limited footage available on Ross and his social media presence is minimal, it is clear that college coaches recognize his exceptional talent. It is evident that Noah has the potential to be among the elite in his class, if not the nation.

#2. Fine Taufatofua Vailahi, DE, Trinity, 6-2 / 235

Fine is recognized as one of the premier defensive linemen in his class within the state. With a total of eight Division I scholarship offers from institutions such as Baylor, SMU, Texas State, and Washington State, he has garnered significant interest from numerous Division I programs. It would not be surprising if he continues to enhance his recruiting profile this fall. Fine exemplifies versatility as an athlete and is exceptionally formidable off the edge, posing challenges for offenses attempting to contain him. He leverages his agility, aggressive playing style, and remarkable strength to dominate blockers and disrupt plays in the backfield. On the offensive front, he is capable of overpowering defenders in short-yardage situations as a running back, and can also serve as a tight end when necessary. He is truly an exceptional athlete to observe.

photo: Cade Draughon, texags.com, X.com @Cade_Draughon

#3. Oswald Jacquet, DL, C.E. King , 6-2 / 290

Oswald, a sizable defensive lineman, demonstrates impressive agility for his dimensions, showcasing a lightness in his movements that enables him to effectively pressure quarterbacks and tackle running backs for losses. As a multi-sport athlete, he excels in both football and throwing events in track and field. His performance has begun to garner interest from the media and college football programs, resulting in three early Division I offers.

#4. Aaron Snell, DL, Waxahachie, 6-0 / 265

Aaron hails from a family with a strong football background. His brother, JayQuan Snell, is a leading prospect in the 2027 class and currently holds the distinction of being the top-ranked safety in Texas. Additionally, Aaron has another brother, Kenedy Snell, who previously played as a wide receiver for TCU. Due to his potential, many college football programs recognize Snell as a significant prospect, resulting in offers from institutions such as SMU and Southern Miss.

#5. Logan Lokey, DE, Denton Guyer, 6-3 / 230

Lokey is an exceptional young talent for Guyer, with familial connections to the next level through his father, Derek Lokey, a former defensive lineman at the University of Texas. As a two-way player, he possesses the athleticism to be considered a top prospect at either tight end or defensive line. While the future remains uncertain, it is clear that whichever position Logan ultimately plays, he is poised to be among the elite in his class.

Watchlist

Semisi Naupoto, DT, Euless Trinity, 6-1 / 250

Sloan Blackwell, DE, Lorena, 6-4 / 210

Eli Sheffield, DE, Sachse, 6-4, 210

Reagan Smith, DE, Weiss, 6-2 / 200

Kendrick “deuce” Morgan, DT, Lone Star, 6-2, 205

Caden Thomas, DT, Nacogdoches, 6-2 / 280

Christopher Racey, DT, Ridge Point, 6-1 / 225