The season is on top of us now. Which means recruiting will be in full swing. In our coverage area, linebackers have traditionally headlined the recruiting class. There are positions that appear loaded with talent for this season, while others are currently under the radar. The linebacker position may be under the radar, with Hillsborough County prospects dominating the list. This year, the position may not garner the majority of the attention. But, there are some darn good linebackers who are still 2014 uncommitted prospects.
1 Anthony Davis, Chamberlain ILB 2014 6-0/215
Arguably the most well rounded linebacker listed. Fills gaps, takes on lead blocks, great blitzer, can turn the corner, run the middle vertical versus the pass, can do it all. Davis is a punishing hitter and reacts fast. Does not waste steps when reading and recognizing the play.
NOTABLE OFFERS: Middle Tennessee, Michigan State, Minnesota, West Virginia, Tulane, Houston
2 Josh Black, Sickles OLB 2014 6-1/210
Needs more reps at linebacker. He is a load at defensive end or a rush edge linebacker. But needs more reps as a stand up LB either inside or outside. Runs like a strong safety and hits like a defensive end. Really impressive total body strength. Finds his way through trash and has a niche for finding the football. 70 tackles and 7 sacks last season.
NOTABLE OFFERS: Iowa State, Bowling Green, Western Kentucky, USF, Arizona
3 Tre Watson, Tampa Catholic OLB 2014 6-2/220
High production player who has played inside, weak and strong side linebacker. Great size with improved strength and speed. Very physical in the hole and runs well. Watson answered any questions that critics may have had for him. 16.5 sacks, 86 solo tackle, 4 PD and 3 caused fumbles in 2012.
NOTABLE OFFERS: Illinois, Middle Tennessee, UCF, Holy Cross, UMASS, Air Force, Furman, USF
4 Jordan Guyton, Robinson LB 2014 5-11/210
Guyton is one of the more physical line backers in Hillsborough County. His contact speed is through the rough and ball carriers don’t forget when jersey #47 brings the hat. Versus the run, he steps up in the hole and fills the gap. He is extremely physical and takes on lead blockers. He shows very good hand movement and placement as he is able to get off blocks and pursue the ball. Versus the pass, he shows good hips, gets great depth and reads routes to disrupt passing lanes.
NOTABLE OFFERS: Presbyterian, Wofford
5 Arthur Wiggins, Middleton LB 2014 6-1/220
One of the most underrated backers in the area. Not much he can not do. Extremely athletic as he also plays TE and WR. Highly productive with a high football IQ. Fast flow player who can get over trash, through traffic and chase down perimeter running plays.
6 Buzz Williams, Lakeland ILB 2014 6-2/225
BIG 10 style linebacker. Traditional 4-3 base defense LB who plays down hill. Prototypical size and plays well between the tackles. Better run stopper than zone/pass dropper. Does a good job blowing up inside runs and runs well enough to get sideline to sideline.