Xzavier Young is a dominant linebacker who strikes fear into quarterbacks. The 5’10, 205 lb prospect is in the class of 2026 and already playing at an elite level. The first thing you notice with Xzavier is his speed and explosiveness. The second the ball is snapped, Xzavier is flying across the line of scrimmage. This tremendous speed makes blocking him almost impossible and allows him to reach the pocket on almost any play. A big reason Xzavier is so fast is the fact that he runs track, something you rarely see linebackers do. Xzavier runs the 200 meter dash in 23.75 seconds, insanely impressive for his stature. Along with that he holds a 4.5s forty yard dash, and a 4.2s three cone shuttle. Now we know he has great speed and agility, but Xzavier also possess great strength. He is a hard hitting linebacker who will deliver a bone crushing blow on every play. He loves physicality and meeting someone on the edge or in the hole. His strength is born in the weight room, and his measurables are pretty impressive. Xzavier can bench press 295 pounds while also being able to squat 450 lbs. The fact that he can squat over double his body weight is a true testament to his lower body strength. This most recent season was a career one for Xzavier. In 13 games Xzavier posted 83 tackles, 3 of them for a loss, 8 Sacks, 5 QB hurries, 2 pass breakups, 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble return, 2 blocked punts, and an extra point attempt block. The stats pretty much speak for themselves when I say Xzavier can do it all. He is truly a utility defender in every sense of the word. His best game this season came against Port Arthur Memorial High School where Xzavier recorded 11 total tackles, 2 tackles for loss, and 2 sacks. His skills were recognized this year when he was named an honorable mention linebacker for his district. Being the only returning outside linebacker for his team next year, expect Xzavier to make a big jump from an already stellar career.
What motivates you to play the game of football?
What really motivates me is my dad. He keeps me pushing with motivational speeches. He just inspires me because he also went D1.
What do you consider your best on the field attribute?
Leadership all the way. I gotta make sure everybody’s right, on and off the field.
I don’t know too many linebackers that also run track, and especially not the 200m. How do you think being a track athlete helps improve your game on the field?
Number one is speed and acceleration. If someone breaks up the middle for a long run, you can give them all your effort to walk them down.
How are you expecting to step up this year, being the only returning varsity OLB?
It’s going to be amazing. I’m really excited for this years team and I believe I’m going to get better personally. It’s going to show while I’m on the field, and same for the rest of the team.
You guys had a tough loss against Aledo in the State Semi-Final, how are you and the team learning from that loss for next season?
It’s just another loss you know. You just gotta improve on it and make sure everyone’s right. Just forget about last year. This year we are 0-0.
What linebackers do you try and emulate on the field?
Fred warner for sure. Budda Baker also because he’s not that tall, so I love the way he plays.
What is your dream college, and have you been in talks with any colleges recently?Â
The main college that I’ve been in talks with is A&M Commerce, they really want me to come to their camp and see what I’m like. Rice also wants me to come to their camp to see what I can do up close and personal. My dream college is the University Of Houston because my dad played there. Notre Dame is a big one for me too.
What has been your biggest improvement since started playing?
I want to say everything because before I was a linebacker, I was a running back. Once I got to middle school I played both positions. My biggest improvement was tackling and having the confidence to go up against older competition.
Do you have a favorite personal highlight from your career?
I think it was a sack against Lancaster, and my 2 sacks against Richland.
What is the most challenging part of being a linebacker?Â
You have to show everyone that you can hit and that you’re competitive. When they moved me to defensive lineman, I had to embrace it and be competitive. There’s nothing to be scared of.
Who is your way too early Super Bowl winner prediction for next season?
I know the Texans are in the picture because they have CJ and everyone from this offseason. I know the Chiefs can possibly run it back. The Ravens are also up there now that they have Derrick Henry, that read option is going to be special. The 49ers are also in there. Those are my top 4.
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