The Commercial Appeal has released its latest rankings of the top high school football linebackers in the Memphis area for the 2026 season, spotlighting ten standout players who have distinguished themselves on the field.
Rising Stars
Shelvy Clark, a senior at Whitehaven, leads the list with 139 total tackles, 18 tackles for loss and eight sacks, while Rashad Bobo of Lake Cormorant posted 94 tackles, 12 for loss and four sacks and has pledged to Western Kentucky. Akeem Hunt at MASE repeated as Region 8‑2A defensive MVP, tallying 147 tackles, 21 for loss and eight sacks. Payden Ballard from Germantown contributed 102 tackles and helped his squad reach the TSSAA playoffs. Landon James of Memphis Central recorded 77 tackles and earned interest from Tennessee Martin and Missouri Southern. Octavius Flynn, a junior at Briarcrest, added 90 tackles, 12 for loss and three sacks, drawing offers from Memphis and Tennessee Martin. Keon Cooper of Lausanne notched 47 tackles, 13 for loss and three sacks while also serving as a running back. Germaine Allen of Covington topped his team with 90 tackles, 10 for loss and two sacks, guiding the team to the Class 3A state semifinals. James Morton Jr. of Southwind logged 92 tackles, 24 for loss, broke up 10 passes, forced four fumbles and blocked three field goals. Braxton Grant of Munford contributed 38 tackles, six for loss and a sack as his team finished 10‑2.
Commitments and Future Paths
Several of the highlighted linebackers have already secured college destinations. Bobo’s commitment to Western Kentucky adds to the program’s recruiting haul, while James Morton Jr. is eyeing opportunities at the University of Memphis. Additional offers from Tennessee Martin and Southern Miss underscore the regional appeal of these prospects.
Team Triumphs and Regional Impact
Beyond individual statistics, the players have helped shape the competitive landscape of Memphis‑area football. Teams such as Covington, Munford and Germantown have advanced deep into the playoffs, reflecting the depth of talent nurtured locally. The presence of multiple athletes on the list illustrates the strength of the area’s defensive schemes and the growing visibility of the region’s high school game.
As the 2026 season unfolds, coaches and recruiters will watch closely how these linebackers translate their high school success into collegiate performance. The rankings not only celebrate past achievements but also set the stage for the next chapter in each player’s football journey.