Voting deadline approaches
Voters have until noon on July 16 to cast their selections for the Guardian Foundation Repair top preseason linebacker award, honoring the most impactful defensive player ahead of the 2026 Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association season.
The watchlist features 18 rising seniors from across the state, each of whom posted standout defensive numbers a year ago. Their performances have sparked early recruiting buzz, with several prospects already holding commitments from Power Five programs.
Defensive standouts
Grace Christian’s Jackson Coffey led his team with 106 tackles and added 11 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks, earning PrepXtra third‑team honors. At Maryville, Dax Cole compiled 123 tackles, 14 for loss and five sacks, while Alcoa’s Jennaris Henry posted 6.5 sacks and a defensive touchdown. These numbers only scratch the surface of a deep field that includes players from Concord Christian, William Blount and beyond.
Recruiting services have taken notice. Parker Newman, a Duke commit from Sevier County, logged 117 tackles and four interceptions, while Tennessee commit JP Peace recorded 121 tackles and a forced fumble. The blend of raw production and high‑profile offers underscores the competitive nature of the race.
Why the award matters
Beyond individual accolades, the preseason linebacker honor serves as a barometer for defensive trends in the state and provides an early narrative for teams gearing up for the new campaign. Coaches and analysts alike will watch the vote tally as a prelude to the season’s first games.