Fort Worth high school football: Top 10 area linebackers to watch in 2025
The Star-Telegram is releasing its list of Fort Worth-area players to watch by position groups.
Introducing the top 10 linebackers to watch.
1. Cooper Witten, Junior, Argyle Liberty Christian
Being the son of Cowboys legend Jason Witten comes with high expectations, and Cooper Witten has surpassed them all. He is 247Sports ' top-ranked linebacker in the class of 2027 nationwide, and top college programs are vying for his talents.
In 2024, he made 45 tackles and hauled in five interceptions, leading the Liberty Christian Warriors to a TAPPS Division I state championship.
2. Braylon Williams, Junior, Arlington Lamar
With a 6-foot-2, 220-pound frame, Williams will be a standout in District 8-6A. He has a three-star rating and is ranked as the No. 41 class of 2027 player in Texas by 247Sports. Last season, he was a Star-Telegram All-Area selection.
He has offers from some of the best college programs in the nation, including Michigan, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Texas A&M and Alabama. Last season, he made over 150 tackles, including 22 for a loss.
3. Bryson Castile, Senior, Arlington Bowie
Castile, a three-star Houston pledge who has a 6-3, 195-pound frame, is a key component in a Bowie linebacker room that is expected to be one of the best in the Fort Worth area.
After making 59 tackles last season, Castile is expected to shine on a defense that should set the tone for the Volunteers.
4. Chase Wilburn, Senior, Aledo
Wilburn was the Bearcats’ leading tackler last season (72), and the team will once again rely on his production. With the graduation of linebackers Owen Henderson and Benton McElree, keep an eye on Wilburn, a Towson commit, to lead the way as Aledo aims to return to its championship standard.
5. Jayden Cupitt, Senior, Mansfield Lake Ridge
Cupitt, a 6-3, 215-pound Rice commit, is extremely versatile, with an ability to play safety; he played a bit of both last season and registered more than 100 tackles. As Lake Ridge looks to bounce back, keep an eye on Cupitt to thrive.
6. Najae Nicholson, Senior, Saginaw
After a district championship run in 2024, Saginaw is looking to keep the magic alive. With several offensive players graduating, the defense is expected to set the tone. Nicholson is a standout in that unit and registered 108 tackles as a junior.
7. Maui Peters, Junior, Boswell
Peters had a stellar sophomore season, making 86 tackles with three sacks and two interceptions. With another year of experience under his belt, keep an eye on him to take another step in his game. The Pioneers have a solid, experienced linebacker group that also includes Anthony Villari.
8. Tristan Clutter, Senior, Justin Northwest
Clutter was a standout for Northwest last season, making 60 tackles. He is a key returner to watch as Northwest looks to compete for a playoff spot in District 4-6A.
9. Logan Woolard, Senior, Alvarado
The Indians’ linebacker group is a huge strength with Woolard returning. In 2024, he made 148 tackles and had 25 for a loss. Ahead of this season, Woolard has earned Class 4A Preseason All-State honors.
10. DJ Clampitt, Senior, Alvarado
Make sure to also keep an eye on DJ Clampitt, who is just as productive as Woolard. In 2024, he made 138 tackles en route to a Star-Telegram All-Area selection.
More positions (Check back for updates)
Top 10 offensive linemen to watch
Top 10 defensive backs to watch
Top 10 defensive linemen to watch
This story was originally published August 7, 2025 at 12:54 PM.
.jpg)