Baxter: Richland Northeast’s Brunson leads way among Midands linebackers

As we continue to mark off the days in the “countdown to kickoff” for the 2015 season, I want to begin releasing the Midlands’ top players. Each year prior to releasing the Midlands Top 25, I always go through position rankings, and today we take a look at the linebackers.

The top guy here was an easy pick. Richland Northeast’s T.J. Brunson is easily one of the top prospects in the state.

Brandon Hill is at the No. 2 spot, followed by a talented group of physical football players.

The sleeper of this group is Brookland-Cayce’s Keyshawn James at No. 3. He’s a big-time hitter for the Bearcats, but I suspect he projects higher playing with his hand on the ground at the next level.

Here’s a look at my top 10 Midlands linebackers:

1. T.J. Brunson, Richland Northeast, Sr.

2. Brandon Hill, Heathwood Hall, Sr.

3. Keyshawn James, Brookland-Cayce, Sr.

4. Trey Mitchell, Lexington, Sr.

5. Zach Feaster, Airport, Sr.

6. John Barnett, Ridge View, Sr.

7. Michael Johnson, White Knoll, Jr.

8. Octavious Green, Pelion, Sr.

9. Malik Rush, A.C. Flora, Sr.

10. Justin Williams, Calhoun County, Sr.