2022 Watch List(LB)

Penn Sr LB Lewis Evans-65tk 6TFL 1.5sacks 2ff 3fr 1int

Evans is one of the best linebackers in the CSFL. He’s been a big-time player since his freshmen year and has only gotten better. A high IQ and tenaciousness make him the ideal middle linebacker. You’ll see Evans making plays all over for the Penn defense as they ask a lot from their star defensive guys. Blitzing, pass coverage, and run stuffing are all things Evans does on a regular basis. Expect Evans to make a push for the CSFL defensive player of the year award as well as our CSFL HUB Don award.

Mansfield Sr LB Matt Robert-68tk 7.5TFL

Robert is another guy who has been a force since his freshmen year. He has led Mansfield in tackles every year that he’s been on the roster. Robert has all the tools that’d you’d want in a middle linebacker. He’s quick to dissect plays, is a great downhill player, and has a great command of the Mansfield defense. Robert averages just about 10 tackles a game for his career. Robert is one of the best defensive players to ever suit up for Mansfield without a doubt. He should finish is career sitting at the table with MU great and CSFL HUB hall of famer Jake Myers as one of the best linebackers to ever play in the CSFL.

Navy Sr Paul LB Kuehler-37tk 8.5TFL 2.5sacks

Kuehler heads into this season as one of Navy’s best returning players. Last season Kuehler led Navy in total tackles and solo tackles. Expect Kuehler to have similar production this year as he looks to minimize the void left by stud LB Mike Garnett. Kuehler will have ample opportunities to have an impact for the Navy defense. With his fellow Sr DL Devyn Martin causing havoc up front, Kuehler should be able to make a ton of plays for Navy. Kuehler will be a player to watch whenever tuning in to a Navy game.

Army Jr LB Luke Gigliotti- 48tk 5TFL 1sack

Gigliotti made an appearance on my, Breakout Watch List Defense, post because I think he can tap into another gear and legitimize himself as one of the best linebackers in the CSFL. That being said, he a very strong linebacker as is. He plays downhill, has a nose for the ball, and brings the boom when it’s time to throw down. He is a leader in the middle of the Army defense. With there being a few questions at some other spots across the defense, look for Army to lean on Gigliotti to make some big plays and come up with crucial stops. Gigliotti could be in for his biggest season yet.

CHC Sr LB/DB Ryan Jakeman-27tk 8TFL 3.5sacks

Jakeman is one of the most consistent and impactful players in the CSFL. His versatility allows him to have an impact on all three levels of the defense. Despite missing just about half of the season last year he still led CHC in TFL and was tied for the team lead in sacks. Jakeman is the best defensive player for CHC, they will need him to make big plays all year if they hope to have a better season than last year. Jakeman should have a strong year and finish his career as one of the best players to ever play for CHC.