CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – This fall, Montgomery County will be loaded with defensive talent. From tackle machines to ball-hawking defensive backs, the area has plenty of playmakers ready to make an impact.
After a tough selection process, we’ve narrowed it down to the 12 defenders we expect to make the biggest impact in 2026.
Defensive Line: Omega Jones, Rossview
Jones is the youngest addition to the preseason defensive team, but he’s no less deserving. The sophomore will be one of Rossview’s most important players this year, with an elite ability to get to the quarterback for his age. Jones will also contribute at tight end, but his value will be most evident on the defensive side of the ball.
Defensive Line: Harold Marshall III, Northeast
Marshall is arguably the area’s best edge rusher, making it a difficult decision on which side of the ball to place him. He’s an ultra-talented running back, but his ability to get into the backfield is just as impressive. The front seven could be one of the Eagles’ few weaknesses this year, but Marshall will do his best to make sure it’s a non-factor.
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Defensive Line: Brodey Rollins, Clarksville
Rollins is one of the more versatile defensive linemen in the area. The senior can line up over a guard and stop the run, while also coming off the edge as a pass rusher. He’ll have an opportunity to build off an impressive campaign that saw him record 11 tackles for loss last season while taking on an even bigger role this fall.
Defensive Line: Tomarco Vereen, Kirkwood
Vereen has had the opportunity to learn behind some great edge rushers, but entering his junior year, it’s his time to shine. He’ll fill the void left by Kamari Blair on the defensive line and bring a unique skill set to the position. Vereen is quick off the edge and could become a quarterback’s nightmare this season.
Linebacker: Brian Howard, Kenwood
Howard isn’t the typical linebacker, but he deserves to be included either way. He plays the rover position for the Knights as a hybrid outside linebacker and safety. With that versatility, he’s bound to be one of the must-watch defensive players in the area and a highlight of a talented Kenwood defense.
Linebacker: Cayson Rasch, Montgomery Central
Rasch will lead Montgomery County in tackles this year, and it’s far from a hot take. Last season, he recorded 133 tackles over 10 games and forced three fumbles along the way. Montgomery Central has expectations to take a jump this year, and with Rasch anchoring the defense, it’s a real possibility.
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Linebacker: Lloyd Lisenbee, Kirkwood
Lisenbee has been one of the Cobras’ most important players on the field since the school opened. He’s played in nearly every game and is considered one of the leaders of the defense. He’s not the flashiest player Kirkwood has, but he does his job and will once again be the heartbeat of the defense in 2026.
Linebacker: Nate Parada, Clarksville
Parada isn’t a physical specimen like some of these other linebackers, but he consistently finds ways to get guys to the ground. He has a big role to fill with Dawson Smith graduating and should be the focal point at linebacker for the Wildcats. In addition to his linebacker duties, Parada will also be part of the Wildcats’ quarterback rotation this year.
Defensive Back: Jayven Norris, Kirkwood
Norris is a physical specimen. He’s Kirkwood’s fastest player, jumps the highest and can outlift anybody his size. He played on both sides of the ball last year, but will likely stick to his natural position at defensive back this season. Norris’ ability to neutralize opposing offensive weapons should be a major asset for the Cobras’ pass defense.
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Defensive Back: Chris Hercules, Rossview
Hercules is one of the most intense players you’ll find in Montgomery County. The safety can get downhill in a hurry and deliver a big hit on a running back or a receiver coming across the middle. The senior is one of the area’s premier players and will add another layer of firepower to the Hawks after transferring from West Creek in July.
Defensive Back: Wyatt Wooten, Clarksville
Wooten is one of the area’s best ballhawks and has a good chance to lead Montgomery County in interceptions again this fall. He had five interceptions last year, tying for the top mark in Tennessee’s 6A classification. His ability to create turnovers gives the Wildcats an added margin for error on defense.
Defensive Back: Jayquain Pappillion, Kenwood
Pappillion is a big reason why I don’t expect the Knights to have a large drop-off from their 6-5 season last year. The corner is one of the area’s best coverage players and will be a major piece of the Knights’ defense this season. With Pappillion anchoring the secondary, Kenwood should once again be able to hold its own against the pass.
Place Kicker/Punter: Hudson Marsh, Kirkwood
Marsh is a head coach’s best friend, providing the Cobras with a reliable option who can make kicks from long range. The kicker went 7-of-8 on field goals last year and 39-of-44 on extra points. In addition to his kicking ability, Marsh averaged 40 yards per punt last fall, making him a valuable multitool for the Cobras’ special teams unit.
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