The Texas High School football season is rapidly approaching, and excitement is building among players, coaches, and fans alike. As we gear up for this highly anticipated season, we would like to share with you our insights regarding the top uncommitted linebacker recruits from the class of 2026 that you should definitely be aware of as we head into the 2025 season. These talented young athletes have shown remarkable potential and skill on the field, and they are poised to attract more offers from colleges as the season progresses. It is quite possible that some of these promising recruits may even make their commitments during the season or shortly thereafter, making it an exciting time for both the players and the recruiting landscape.
Payhton Porter , LB , Melissa , 6-3.5 / 200
Porter is a three-star prospect and ranks highly in our class of 2026 linebacker rankings. He currently holds 11 Division I offers from schools like Baylor, Houston, Missouri, Oklahoma State, and others. As a multi-sport athlete, he competes in both track and football. While he currently plays running back for Melissa, his size and strength suggest he would excel as a linebacker at the next level, where he could make plays and rack up tackles for various teams.
Calvin Carter , Edge/LB , Dekaney , 6-3 / 225
We recently covered Carter as a player who has yet to commit as an edge recruit but could also play linebacker at the next level. He has the potential to dominate as a hybrid edge rusher, outside linebacker, or even middle linebacker. His physical build resembles that of a college athlete, and he has plenty of room to add more mass and fine-tune his skills for the next level. He reads plays well, fills gaps, and attacks runs in the backfield while also having the ability to pressure the quarterback. Currently, he has significant offers from schools like Texas, Notre Dame, and others. More schools will likely come calling for Carter’s services this season.
Kailer Pettijohn , LB , McKinney , 6-2 / 196
Kailer looks like to be a highly rated three-star or four-star player based on his tape and impressive size of 6-foot-2, 196 lbs. He has the ability to dominate, accumulating tackles and tackles for loss, and can cover sideline to sideline. Coaches should monitor this recruit this season, as he could climb many recruiting boards.
Giavani Baker , LB , Shadow Creek , 6-2 / 225
Currently holds four Division I offers from schools like Arkansas State, New Mexico State, Lamar, and UTEP.
Haven Garrett , LB , Mesquite Horn , 6-2 / 205
Currently holds four Division I offers from schools like UNT, Texas State, UNLV, and Tulsa. Garrett is explosive off the edge and can get after the quarterback. He’s got a great get off the ball with a quick first step that often beats blockers coming off the edge.
Kenneth Youngblood Jr. , LB , Cedar Hill , 6-1 / 200
Has three Division I offers from schools like UNLV, UTSA, and UTEP. We suspect more to come for Kenneth this season, who could rise up many recruiting boards and rankings this season.
