Upstate Ingles 2026 Preseason Top Defensive Lineman Vote

Overview of the Poll

Fans across the Upstate region have the chance to influence the 2026 preseason rankings for the top defensive lineman. The voting window stays open until noon on July 23, allowing multiple entries per voter. This poll captures early buzz ahead of the high school football season in Greenville, Spartanburg, and Anderson areas.

Key Contenders and Their Impact

Below is a rundown of the players leading the preseason conversation, their sack totals and the colleges showing interest.

• Christian Webb‑Scott (Westside) recorded 76 tackles as a sophomore, including 13 tackles for loss and seven sacks. He already boasts Power 5 offers from Georgia Southern, Indiana, Southern California, Florida, Notre Dame, Alabama and several others. Webb‑Scott’s production on the field makes him a natural favorite in the poll.
• Dennis Glenn Jr. (Boiling Springs) compiled 40 solo tackles with 21 tackles for loss and six sacks in his junior season. After committing to Rutgers, he also attracted offers from UConn, Kentucky, Cincinnati and ECU. The Bulldogs’ overall mark of 5‑7, 2‑5 in Region 2‑5A provides context for his performance.
• James Porter (Dorman) totaled 51.5 tackles in 2025, with eight tackles for loss and six sacks. He has been pursued by ETSU, Western Carolina, Bowling Green, Mercer, Air Force and Miami of Ohio, among others. Porter anchored a line that guided Dorman to the Upper State finals, its first appearance since 2019.
• Nigel Rock (Southside Christian) posted 41 solo tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 10 sacks and two interceptions. He earned a spot on the All‑Region team and holds an offer from Davidson College. Southside Christian finished 6‑6, 4‑1 in Region 2‑3A5.
• Joshua Evans (Mauldin) recorded 68 total tackles as a sophomore, including 13.5 tackles for loss and seven sacks. He was honored as a Class 5A All‑Region selection. Mauldin’s season ended 5‑6, 3‑4 in Region 1‑5A.
• Kamarion Glenn (Belton‑Honea Path) amassed 28 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and three sacks. The Bears advanced to the Class 3A state championship for the second consecutive year, falling 28‑7 to Oceanside Collegiate Academy. Their final record was 14‑1, 4‑0 in Region 1‑3A.
• Jayden Wheeler (J.L. Mann) collected 41 tackles as a sophomore, featuring 14 tackles for loss and three sacks. He received an offer from Avila University. The Patriots closed the season 1‑10, 1‑6 in Region 1‑5A.
• Jensen Granger (St. Joseph’s) logged 45 tackles in 2025, with eight tackles for loss and one interception. He earned the Class 3A lineman of the week award in Week 9. St. Joseph’s finished 5‑6, 2‑3 in Region 2‑3A.
• Trevon Clark (Blacksburg) was named a Class 2A All‑Region player and a leader on Blacksburg’s defensive line. He holds an offer from Concord University. The team ended 1‑10, 1‑3 in Region 1‑2A.
• Cory Collins (Hillcrest) recorded 34 total tackles as a sophomore, including four tackles for loss and four sacks. Hillcrest concluded with an 8‑4, 5‑2 record in Region 1‑5A.

What the Poll Means for 2026

Early voter sentiment can shape recruiting narratives before the first preseason practice. Recruiters often scan these early polls to identify players with high upside. The numbers posted by each lineman can influence scholarship discussions before official camps. As the July 23 deadline draws near, fan votes will likely shift the landscape of prospects for 2026.

Final Thoughts

The Upstate Ingles poll offers a snapshot of which defensive linemen are standing out in the region. A blend of sack production, tackle‑for‑loss figures and a growing list of college offers gives each candidate a distinct story in the voting. As the July 23 deadline approaches, fan input will set the tone for the upcoming recruiting cycle.