Top 10 Texas defensive players for 2023 HS football season
9. Elijah Barnes, Jr., Skyline
The Texas District 11-6A Defensive Newcomer of the Year was one of the most impressive linebackers in the state during his sophomore year as he racked up a whopping 131 tackles and 15 tackles for loss. At 6-foot-1, 215 pounds, Skyline鈥檚 budding playmaker was a force working downhill, but Barnes was still able to add an interception to his totals throughout the 2022 campaign. The breakout year could be just the start for the junior linebacker who will have the chance to replicate his individual production as the team aims to resurrect its disappointing past season.