As the landscape of high school football continues to evolve, several standout linebackers (LB in football) from Texas have garnered significant attention for their exceptional performances on the field. These young athletes have not only demonstrated remarkable skill and athleticism but have also attracted interest from numerous collegiate programs nationwide. In this article, we delve into the latest recruiting updates, offers, and scouting reports for five prominent linebackers, based on high school player rankings football and Texas high school football rankings from sources like Dave Campbell’s Texas Football and the 247Sports Composite.
Each of these top high school football players has made a significant impact on their respective teams, showcasing abilities that have placed them on the radar of top college football programs. From impressive tackle counts to leadership qualities on defense, their contributions have been instrumental in their teams’ successes. Below, we provide a comprehensive overview of their current recruiting statuses, including the number of offers received, latest news, and expert scouting evaluations from various recruiting services.
1. Tank King – Linebacker, Port Arthur Memorial (6-2, 200 lbs)
Credit: portarthurnews.com
Offers:
As of July 2023, Tai’yion “Tank” King has received offers from several Division I programs, including Missouri, SMU, Baylor, and Texas A&M. His committed status remains open as he continues to evaluate his options in the Texas football recruiting landscape.
Scouting Report:
King emerged as a defensive force during his freshman year in 2022, securing a starting linebacker position and recording nearly 60 tackles and three sacks. Originally a defensive end, his transition to linebacker (what position is LB) has been marked by his dedication to improving strength and speed, drawing comparisons to NFL star Micah Parsons for his versatility and playmaking ability. Many player evaluations suggest he could become one of the best linebacker prospects in his class.
2. Noriel Dominguez – Linebacker, Fort Bend Marshall (6-3, 223 lbs)
credits: 247sports.com
Offers:
According to Rivals and the On3 Industry Rankings, as of June 2024, Dominguez holds 18 offers from various collegiate programs, including Arizona State, Arkansas, Baylor, California, and Florida.
Scouting Report:
While specific scouting details are limited, Dominguez’s size and athleticism suggest a high ceiling as a linebacker. His growing list of offers indicates that college programs recognize his potential to contribute significantly at the next level. He is considered one of the top 10 outside linebackers in his class by several recruiting services.
3. Kosi Okpala – Linebacker, Mayde Creek (6-2, 215 lbs)
credit: texags.com
Offers:
Okpala has attracted attention from numerous top-tier programs, receiving offers from schools such as Texas, Texas Tech, Houston, SMU, Baylor, Texas A&M, UTEP, Tennessee, Kansas, Ole Miss, USC, Michigan, Duke, Alabama, Nebraska, Ohio State, Oklahoma, and TCU.
Scouting Report:
Okpala is a top-tier athlete at the EDGE/OLB position, displaying exceptional first-step quickness and upfield burst that disrupts offensive backfields. His elite bend and change of direction enable him to consistently pressure quarterbacks as a pass rusher. With very good hand usage and an impressive ability to evade offensive linemen’s initial punches, Okpala is challenging to contain in pass protection. As he continues to develop physically and add strength, he projects as one of the best available linebackers at the Power 4 level.
4. Jamarion Phillips – Linebacker, South Oak Cliff (6-1, 220 lbs)
Offers:
Currently, there is limited publicly available information regarding the specific number of offers Phillips has received. However, his performance at South Oak Cliff suggests that he is on the radar of collegiate programs and is likely to be featured in future college football linebacker rankings.
Top 10?? pic.twitter.com/JtC5F3nlDs
— Jamarion Phillips (@JamarionP1) February 9, 2025
Scouting Report:
Detailed scouting reports for Phillips are not readily accessible at this time. His physical attributes and contributions to South Oak Cliff’s defense indicate a player with significant potential. As more player evaluations become available, Phillips may well establish himself among the top 5 middle linebackers in his class.
5. Daquives Beck – Linebacker, Carthage (6-0, 190 lbs)
credit: 247sports.com
Offers:
According to Rivals and other recruiting services, as of June 2024, Beck has received 15 offers from programs including Arizona State, Baylor, Houston, Ole Miss, and Mississippi State.
Scouting Report:
Beck played a pivotal role in Carthage High School Texas’ defense, leading them to their 10th state title in 2024. In the championship game, he recorded 10 total tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and a sack, earning Defensive MVP honors. His performance underscores his ability to disrupt offenses and make impactful plays in critical moments, solidifying his status as one of the top linebacker recruits in the state.
The linebacker position in Texas high school football is brimming with talent, as evidenced by the achievements and potential of these five athletes. Their dedication, performance, and the interest they’ve garnered from collegiate programs underscore their readiness to excel at the next level. As they continue to develop and make their college decisions, these players will undoubtedly be ones to watch in the coming seasons.
For high school football prospects and fans alike, keeping an eye on these top high school football recruits will provide insight into the future of college football linebacker rankings. As Texas football recruiting for the 2025 and 2026 classes heats up, these linebackers are sure to be at the forefront of many college-bound prospects lists, potentially reshaping the landscape of college football defenses in the years to come.
