The 2026 OSAA football season is shaping up to be a showcase for the Salem‑Keizer region’s defensive front, with ten standout linemen poised to anchor their teams' attacks.
A deep defensive line
Mark Bailey, a junior who helped the Foxes capture the Class 5A state title last year, returns as a first‑team all‑conference and second‑team all‑state selection, bringing experience and leadership to the line.
Royal Carlson, a senior who earned an all‑state honorable mention while at Dayton, is now slated to bolster West Salem’s revamped defense after completing his Oregon stint.
Aiden Galusha, the senior who was named conference defensive lineman of the year in Special District 3 and earned second‑team all‑state honors last fall, is expected to anchor the line for his school.
Brendan Goodwin, another senior, made the first‑team all‑conference list in Class 6A’s Special District 1 and also placed at the state shot‑put meet, adding a rare blend of size and athleticism.
Emmett Hunsaker, who received honorable‑mention recognition on the defensive line for Sprague’s 5‑5 campaign, is among the returning pieces that could push the Olympians higher in the rankings.
Bertram Latta, a junior who earned an honorable‑mention in Class 5A’s Special District 3, is projected to be a key contributor for Dallas as the Dragons aim to tighten their front.
Isaiah Longoria, a two‑way lineman who made an impact on McNary’s 2‑7 team, will now play a central role in the newly formed Salem‑based 6A conference, bringing versatility to both sides of the ball.
Alonso Lopez Montero, a senior who was a second‑team all‑conference pick for North Salem’s 5‑5 Vikings, adds depth to the defensive line for the Vikings.
Creo Walker, a third‑team all‑state selection who contributed to Kennedy’s 7‑3 season that ended in the state quarterfinals, returns to Mt. Angel and is expected to make an immediate impact.
Jamison Walsh, the senior who earned first‑team all‑state honors for Cascade’s Class 4A championship Cougars and also serves as a tight end, will be a two‑way force for his team.