The upcoming 2026 Michigan high school football season promises to showcase some exceptional linebacker talent, with MLive's position-by-position analysis highlighting the best players in Divisions 6 and 7. As a seasoned analyst, I'm intrigued by the depth of talent and the potential for these young athletes to make a significant impact on the gridiron.
The Linebacking Elite
Let's delve into the heart of the defense, where these linebackers are poised to dominate. The list includes Trent Anderson, a dual-threat force for Calumet, who combines power and finesse, and Ayden Battani, a consistent playmaker for Almont, showcasing his versatility as both a defensive stalwart and an offensive contributor.
Austin Bourassa, a standout wrestler and all-around athlete, embodies the toughness and intelligence required for the position. His coach's praise speaks volumes about his character and potential. Broghan Bupp, a tackling machine for Ithaca, led Division 7 with an impressive 141 tackles, demonstrating his defensive prowess.
Rising Stars and Versatile Talents
Graysen Carroll, a tight end and middle linebacker, had a breakout season in 2025, showcasing his two-way abilities. The Central Montcalm Hornets and Montague Wildcats face the challenge of rebuilding their linebacker corps, while Jake Contat, a defensive leader for Jackson Lumen Christi, has been instrumental in their recent success, including a state championship victory.
Leroy Cuykendall, a two-way starter for Erie Mason, is a defensive force with a nose for the ball, and Max Eling, a physical presence for McBain, excels in both offense and defense. Caleb Harvey, a middle linebacker and wrestling standout, and Noah Hesse, a versatile linebacker and National Honor Society inductee, demonstrate the importance of athleticism and academics.
Leadership and Multisport Excellence
Raymond Jackson, a multi-position player for Parchment, returns from injury, while Colten Karbel, a tackling machine for Almont, steps into a leadership role. Cash Knutson, a three-year starter for Algonac, brings intelligence and physicality to the field, and Rishon Langford-Smith, a highly-touted recruit for Ecorse, showcases his leadership and athletic abilities.
Landon Mattis, a Division 7-8 all-state athlete, is a defensive beast with a bright future, and Johnny McConnell, a multisport star for Perry, combines hitting power with athleticism. Hyker McKinney, a dominant presence for Boyne City, and Liam McMurtry, a powerful player for Brooklyn Columbia Central, are poised for breakout seasons.
Experience and Versatility
Shepherd Moussiaux, a dedicated weight room warrior, and Matt Murdoch, a relentless defensive player, contribute to their teams' success. Cyler Neelis, a speedy and strong outside linebacker, and Nathan Nelson, a state championship hero for Menominee, are key returners. Kallen Perior, a versatile athlete, and Braxton Randolph, an emotional leader, showcase their all-around skills.
Colton Rolison, a defensive anchor for Ravenna, and Nate Siefker, a smart and resilient linebacker, demonstrate their leadership and character. Hayden Smith, a four-year starter for Pewamo-Westphalia, provides invaluable experience, while Brayden Stanard, a dedicated three-sport athlete, and DJ Sykes, a sophomore standout, represent the future of the position.
Looking Ahead
The list continues with Drake Terwilliger, a consistent playmaker for Millington, and Alan Thomas III, a versatile athlete for McBain. Lastly, Brett Travis, a Bay City-area standout, anchors the defense with his physical play. These linebackers are not just athletes; they are leaders, scholars, and competitors, shaping the future of Michigan high school football.
In my opinion, the depth and quality of these linebackers are a testament to the rich football culture in Michigan. Their stories, from injury comebacks to leadership roles, inspire and remind us of the dedication required to excel in this demanding sport. As the season approaches, I eagerly anticipate witnessing these young talents take the field and make their mark on the gridiron.
