2026 TSSAA Preseason Linebacker Vote

Why the Vote Matters

The TSSAA is accepting ballots for the Guardian Foundation Repair top preseason linebacker through noon on July 16. Early recognition can shape a player’s recruiting trajectory and signal to college scouts which high‑school defenders are poised for success in 2026. The preseason honor reflects not just past yardage but perceived potential heading into the season.

Top Candidates for the Honor

• Jackson Coffey (Grace Christian) returns after a standout 2025 campaign that earned him a PrepXtra Third Team selection. He posted 106 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks, setting a solid baseline for his sophomore season. Coffey’s consistency at the point of attack makes him a top contender for the preseason honor.
• Dax Cole (Maryville) anchors a new trio of dynamic linebackers for the Rebels in 2026. Cole recorded 123 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, five sacks and a fumble recovery, showcasing his versatility against both the run and pass. His leadership on the field and measurable production keep him in the mix for the top vote‑getter.
• Reece Franklin (Concord Christian) finished last fall with 70 tackles, eight tackles for loss and five sacks. Franklin’s ability to disrupt plays in the backfield has drawn attention from recruiters looking for relentless pass rushers. His 2025 numbers give him a strong résumé entering 2026.
• Jennaris Henry (Alcoa) totaled 43 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, two fumble recoveries and a defensive touchdown in 2025. Henry is gaining considerable recruiting attention and has power offers from Tennessee, Michigan, Missouri, Vanderbilt, Arkansas, Louisville and Virginia Tech. His blend of size, speed and ball‑hawking skills makes him a prime candidate for the award.
• Mason Johnson (William Blount) piled up 95 tackles and a league‑leading 29 quarterback pressures last season. Johnson also recorded six tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, two pass breakups and a fumble recovery, highlighting his impact both as a pass rusher and a coverage asset. The numbers underscore his role as a defensive catalyst.
• Jack Lister (Greeneville) plugged holes in the Green Velvet defense with 58 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, five pressures, two pass breakups, a sack, a fumble recovery and a forced fumble. Lister’s tenacity in short‑area tackling and his ability to generate pressure on the quarterback are key strengths. His all‑around contributions make him a serious contender.
• Landon Murphy (Sweetwater) amassed 101 tackles, three blocked PATs, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and an interception. Murphy’s ability to create turnovers and disrupt special‑teams units adds value beyond typical linebacker duties. His 2025 season showcases a rare blend of productivity and impact.
• Parker Newman (Sevier County) is a Duke commit and PrepXtra Second Team honoree who logged 117 tackles, eight tackles for loss, eight pass breakups, four interceptions, three sacks, three defensive touchdowns and two fumble recoveries. Newman’s coverage skills and playmaking in the passing game set him apart from many linebackers. His statistical edge bolsters his candidacy.
• JP Peace (Maryville) transferred to Maryville after a dominant stretch at West, where he posted 121 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, a sack, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. As a Tennessee commit, Peace brings experience and elite production to the Maryville defense. His résumé of high‑impact plays makes him a top vote‑getter.
• Carson Pearce (Halls) earned a PrepXtra First Team nod and formed half of a star linebacker duo for the Red Devils. Pearce logged 137 tackles, 23 tackles for loss, seven sacks, two fumble recoveries and a forced fumble, demonstrating his capacity to dominate at the line. His ability to consistently generate pressure and dominate run lanes elevates his profile.
• Johnny Rosenbalm (Carter) led the Carter defense with 123 tackles, 21 tackles for loss, seven sacks and a defensive touchdown. Rosenbalm also earned a PrepXtra Third Team selection, underscoring his season‑long impact. His relentless pursuit of the quarterback and ability to shed blocks make him a formidable presence.
• Gavin Self (Halls) completes the Red Devils elite linebacker core, posting 151 tackles, eight tackles for loss, four sacks and a forced fumble. Self’s stamina and productivity on every defensive snap have made him a pivotal figure in Halls’ defensive scheme. His dominance in the box reinforces his standing among the top candidates.
• Connor Wheeler (Heritage) recorded 72 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, two interceptions, a sack, a pass breakup and a fumble recovery. Wheeler’s ball‑skills and coverage versatility add depth to Heritage’s defensive backfield. His ability to rebound scrimmage plays into scores demonstrates his value.
• Wyatt Wilber (Maryville) is a Minnesota commit who amassed 98 tackles, seven tackles for loss, a sack, an interception and a fumble recovery. Wilber’s blend of physicality and defensive awareness has made him a consistent performer. His 2025 stats provide a solid foundation for a breakout junior season.
• Marvin Wyrosdick (CAK) continued as a defensive cornerstone after posting 116 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, three sacks, three forced fumbles, two pressures and a fumble recovery. Wyrosdick’s ability to generate turnovers and disrupt passing lanes keeps CAK competitive. His leadership and playmaking have kept him at a high level for multiple seasons.
• Jackson Younger (Gatlinburg‑Pittman) finished the 2025 season with 72 tackles, three tackles for loss and two sacks. Younger’s consistency at the linebacker spot contributed to Pittman’s defensive success. His steady performance signals strong potential for another productive year.

With the July 16 deadline approaching, fans and recruiters alike will be watching which players rise to the top. The preseason vote often sets the narrative for the upcoming season and can influence college scouts’ early impressions. Staying informed on these candidates helps gauge the direction of high‑school football in the TSSAA region.