Linebackers are often the heartbeat of a defense, and Big Bend is loaded with playmakers at the position heading into the 2026 season.
From tackling machines to relentless pass rushers, these seven linebackers have the instincts, physicality and production to anchor their teams and make game-changing plays on Friday nights.
Here’s a look at seven of the top linebackers to watch this season:
Jason Harville, Florida High
Analysis: Harville is a physical force in the middle of Florida High’s defense. Combining size, speed and toughness, he led the Seminoles in tackles, tackles for loss and sacks last season. Harville holds Division I offers from Troy and UT Martin, and another productive season could attract additional attention from college programs.
Skyler Burger, Florida High
Analysis: Playing alongside Harville, Burger excels in pass coverage while remaining a productive run defender. Florida High’s second-leading tackler also finished among the team’s leaders in pass breakups. His instincts and ability to diagnose plays make him a natural fit at middle linebacker. Together, Burger and Harville form one of the area’s top linebacker tandems.
Randon Manausa, Leon
Analysis: Manausa is one of Leon’s most versatile playmakers. He led the Lions in tackles and tackles for loss while also contributing on offense at fullback. Quick to read plays and react after the snap, Manausa sets the tone for Leon’s defense and enters his final season as one of the team’s leaders.
Cooper Wiles, Aucilla Christian
Analysis: No linebacker in the Big Bend region recorded more tackles than Wiles last season. He plays with relentless energy and a nonstop motor, consistently tracking down ball carriers from sideline to sideline. As one of Aucilla Christian’s top athletes, Wiles will be counted on to lead a young roster.
Mason McCants, Chiles
Analysis: McCants returns as one of the most productive defenders in the area after posting 133 tackles in 2025. He has a knack for finding the football, plays sound fundamentally and delivers physical hits in the running game. His ability to make tackles in space makes him a key piece of the Timberwolves’ defense.
Nkari Green, North Florida Christian
Analysis: Green’s versatility allows him to impact the game from multiple spots on the field. He led North Florida Christian with 19 tackles for loss and consistently showcased his ability to shed blocks, rush the passer and contribute in coverage. His all-around skill set makes him one of the most complete linebackers in the region.
Rayshon St. Hilaire, Wakulla
Analysis: St. Hilaire earned a reputation for his speed and aggressive style of play. Whether blitzing off the edge or chasing down ball carriers in the open field, he brings explosive energy to Wakulla’s defense. As a key returning starter, St. Hilaire will play a major role for the War Eagles this season.
Peter Holland Jr. covers Florida State athletics and Big Bend Preps for the Tallahassee Democrat. If you like to pitch a story on a high school athlete, don’t hesitate to get in touch with him via email at PHolland@Gannett.com or on X @_Da_pistol.
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Poll: Who will be the top linebacker in Big Bend in 2026 season? Vote now
Reporting by Peter Holland Jr., Tallahassee Democrat / Tallahassee Democrat
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Peter Holland Jr., Tallahassee Democrat | USA TODAY Network
