If Westlake’s linebackers played for another team, they’d make up a pretty dynamic backfield. But now, the group can only flash its speed while racing to the ball.

Three of Westlake’s regular linebackers – Bryce Hager, Ellis Glaw and Conor Byrne – have played running back in high school. Combined with Paul Brown, the trio gives Westlake a ballhawking bunch that leaves little doubt about its best attribute.

 

 

“We can do a lot of things with our linebackers,” Coach Darren Allman said. “There’s no doubt that their speed is a strength.”

The unit received an upgrade in the summer when Westlake’s coaches moved Hager back to a full-time job as an inside linebacker after a flirtation with the starting running back job. Hager is an intense tackler with a high motor and good bloodlines – dad Britt played in the NFL, and older brother Bron signed a scholarship with the University of North Texas. He had 95 tackles and three interceptions while earning all-district honors a year ago.

Like his senior classmate Hager, Glaw also has two years of varsity experience and accumulated 62 tackles last season. He will also rush the passer more, said Allman.

Garrett Ochoa, Alec Cameron, Ari Shita, Jonathan Kennedy, Eric Wiggin, Doug Brustkern, Blake McTee and Jon McMichael provide depth to the unit.