"Relentless Wrecking Ball: Explosive Versatility and Fearless Field General"

Jonathan Manson

@JonathanManso12

IG: @Jonathan.officially

5’10, 190lbs, Class of 2026

Franklinton HS, NC

Jonathan is a fierce, explosive tackling machine who brings electricity to every snap. With violent closing speed and a fearless edge, he delivers bone-rattling hits. His versatility separates him from the average defender and can play the run, roll back into coverage, press a slot receiver, or walk down on the line and still dominate. As a two-way dynamic athlete, his speed is lethal, swallowing return yards like Pac-Man devouring power pellets. Coaches know exactly what they get with Jonathan: a relentless competitor who leaves everything on the field, motivates teammates, and turns momentum with his intensity. He’s not just another linebacker but a relentless force who sets the tone for an entire defense.

This past season, Jonathan had 46 total tackles, 9 solos, 1 sack, 2 forced fumbles, 2 tackles for loss, a hurry, a pass deflection, a blocked extra point, 955 punt yards with three pinned inside the 20, and three recovered fumbles. His biggest improvement has come in man coverage, where he now thrives in press situations against shifty slot receivers. He embraces the grind in the offseason, focusing on footwork, consistency in coverage, and developing more explosive power to take on bigger roles. His biggest motivation comes from the truth he lives by: you never know when your last snap will be, so he pours everything into every play. Even through a losing season and the grind of being overlooked in a small town, Jonathan elevated his game, proving that pressure makes diamonds. His invite list and recognition only grew, as he now holds four offers (Wisconsin Lutheran, Dakota Wesleyan, Bethel College, Brevard College) while drawing steady interest from Reinhardt, WPI, Wofford, AIC, IWU, Thiel, and others.

What separates Jonathan is his mindset. He thrives in chaos, reads alignments and keys with instinctive football IQ, and plays the game at a pace that forces offenses to adjust. When facing adversity, he uses it as fuel to keep climbing. His best advice he’s ever received is, “Keep your head down and work, even when the results don’t come right away.” That’s why his motor never stops and his drive never slows. Coaches can expect an anchor who will bring toughness, leadership, and an edge that sparks confidence in every teammate.

Recruiting hasn’t been easy, but Jonathan’s resilience defines him. Coming from a small program with a losing record, he’s had to battle for recognition. Yet with faith, family, and sacrifice, he’s turning obstacles into opportunities. His parents’ support and prayer keep him grounded, and his toughness ensures he never loses sight of the bigger goal: playing the game he loves at the next level for a program that values him as family, not just a roster spot.

I assess that Jonathan’s violent tackling, fearless versatility, and high football IQ give him the tools to elevate a college defense immediately. He brings coverage ability, sideline-to-sideline pursuit, and a punishing edge that makes him dangerous in any role. His ability to line up anywhere, from linebacker to safety to special teams, means coaches gain a plug-and-play weapon who raises the intensity of everyone around him. His energy, leadership, and relentless motor are traits that build programs from the inside out.

Jonathan’s growth potential is sky-high. As he adds strength and continues developing his footwork, expect him to become even more explosive and effective in coverage. His versatility, combined with a fierce competitive spirit, poised to be a player who will outwork and outlast many of his peers. He’s likely to thrive at the next level, bringing production, toughness, and a fearless edge that makes him impossible to ignore. Jonathan isn’t just on the rise; he can redefine expectations wherever he lands. But play with edge, fire, and passion, this rising senior is pushing to be the best version of himself possible and making a statement that heart, work ethic, and determination can pay off, no matter where you come from. Stay tuned as his final mission unfolds.