Alabama’s top high school football linebackers: Meet the best LBs in Double-A Private

As the 2026 season approaches, 205focus.com is shining a spotlight on the standout high school football talent across Alabama. In this installment, we shift our focus to the defensive side of the ball, highlighting the top linebackers competing in the Double-A Private classification.

Our rankings were compiled by reaching out to coaches across the state and collecting their professional feedback via survey. We remain committed to growing this list throughout the season, so if you think a standout athlete belongs here, encourage their coach to submit a response. Please note that Houston Academy did not provide survey input at the time of publication. Stay tuned for our upcoming fan poll, where you will have the chance to vote for the best of the best!

Top Linebackers to Watch

Abrams (Saints): A proven three-year starter, Abrams is a force on both sides of the ball. Boasting 221 career tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and eight sacks, he is also a reliable offensive weapon with 674 rushing yards and six scores. With offers from major programs including Michigan, Georgia Tech, and Boston College, he is expected to make a college commitment before the season kicks off.

Gaines (Mustangs): As a two-time returning starter, Gaines is primed for a breakout year. Standing 5-foot-10 and 200 pounds, he racked up 66 tackles and five tackles for loss as a junior, anchoring a young, speedy Mustangs defense.

Fred Lewis (Knights): A standout three-sport athlete, Lewis is a nightmare for opposing offenses. He led his team last season with 106 tackles and 12 tackles for loss. Coach Aubrey Blackwell notes that Lewis plays with exceptional speed, allowing him to close gaps and move side to side with ease.

Charlie McConnell (Bulldogs): After posting 52 tackles as a junior, McConnell is expected to be the focal point of the Bulldogs' defense. Coach Sam Williams anticipates that the athletic linebacker could surpass the 100-tackle mark this year.

Nasworthy (Lions): Following a 161-tackle season that earned him 5A second-team all-state honors, Nasworthy enters his senior year as the clear leader of his defense. With a 3.9 GPA and offers from Grinnell and Huntingdon, he brings elite effort and intelligence to the middle linebacker position.

Brooks Zachry (Warriors): A true dual-threat athlete, Zachry is a 4.2 GPA student and a second-team 3A all-state running back who thrives at inside linebacker. He recorded 101 total tackles last season and continues to show relentless physicality on every snap.

Jackson (Rams): Already recognized as a top running back in his class, Jackson is equally impactful on defense. His coach, Gaines Sullivan, credits his toughness and leadership for making him an invaluable asset on the field.

Additional Standouts

• DiRico (Raiders): A versatile playmaker capable of lining up inside or outside with great intensity.
• Frey (Falcons): A physical presence at middle linebacker who recorded 27 tackles and a sack last season, supported by teammates Will Simmons and Sawyer Condrey.
• Knecht (Wildcats): A high-character student of the game responsible for setting the defensive front.
• LeBlanc (Wildcats): After significant physical growth in the offseason, he is set to anchor the team's 3-3 stack.
• Murillo (Yellow Jackets): A 220-pound three-year starter and true run-plugger in the middle.
• Gary Ward (Raiders): The clear leader of the defense and a reliable playmaker.
• Clark and Cline (Gators): A senior duo that combined for over 140 tackles last season.
• Kerbl and Rodgers (Cardinals): A reliable pairing that provides energy and strength against the run.
• Barger, Durrett, and Jackson (Patriots): A well-rounded unit led by experienced veterans and a promising freshman standout.

For complete coverage of Alabama high school football, including schedules, scores, recruiting news and additional player spotlights, visit 205focus.com's high school sports section throughout the season.