Golden State Defense, 2022 California Linebackers to Watch
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The linebacker position is the sparkplug to any defense, the ability to set the tone in the run game where they can stack and shed off and accelerate off blocks to make key plays in the opposing backfield. They must…
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Continue ReadingThe linebacker position is the sparkplug to any defense, the ability to set the tone in the run game where they can stack and shed off and accelerate off blocks to make key plays in the opposing backfield. They must be able to cover ground quickly and effectively and be confident in space to be able to cover running backs, tight ends, and even receivers in the slot. Let’s take a look at five 2022 linebackers from the state of California to keep an eye on this upcoming season!
David Bailey David Bailey 6'3" | 220 lbs | LB Mater Dei | 2022 State CA 6-3 220 Mater Dei High School
A physical linebacker that has the confidence to play on the line of scrimmage and demonstrates to have active hands which allow to stack and shed the offensive lineman quickly and effectively to get into the opposing backfield. He demonstrates the ability to tackle well in the open field and not lunge at the ball carrier, has good consistent mechanics for tackling.
Jalen Woods Jalen Woods 6'0" | 205 lbs | LB St. John Bosco | 2022 State CA 6-0 205 St. John Bosco High School
An explosive “quick twitch” linebacker that has the ability to be a force at the line of scrimmage by being able to generate a powerful rush and has active hands to strike offensive lineman. When playing off the ball he can time up blitzes well and find the open crease in the pass protection and can make key plays.
Cody Stordahl Cody Stordahl 5'11" | 200 lbs | LB Chaparral | 2022 State CA 6-0 200 Chaparral High School
A versatile athlete at the linebacker position that has great range and is a sideline to sideline type of player that takes great angles to the ball carrier. He is very comfortable in space reads and reacts to routes while they form, and breaks on the ball quickly to make key plays in the open field.
Niuafe Tuihalamaka Niuafe Tuihalamaka 6'3" | 240 lbs | LB Bishop Alemany | 2022 State CA 6-3 230 Bishop Alemany High School
An absolute physical force a the linebacker position can be counted on as a playmaker with his ability to quickly read and react and make disruptive plays in the opposing offensive backfield. He demonstrates the ability to have multiple pass rush moves to bring pressure, he has heavy hands to strike and shed blocks.
Harmon Savaiinaea Harmon Savaiinaea 6'1" | 210 lbs | LB Cathedral Catholic | 2022 State CA 6-1 215 Cathedral Catholic High School
A wrecking ball that plays with a physical demeanor off the edge and plays with good leverage which allows him to explode into his strikes to shed off blocks quickly to make key plays in the backfield. He is comfortable in space and anticipates routes that are developing and is patient to make a play on the ball.