Columbus, under head coach Blake Burns, will rely on a tough, tackling-heavy defensive core in 2026. Burns’ nominations spotlight linebackers Braun Stone and Shade Schuberger, two seniors whose production and leadership shape the Titans’ identity. Stone was Columbus’ leading tackler last season and earned all-league honors as a junior, reflecting his consistency and impact. Burns says Stone has developed into a solid player and is one of the senior leaders the staff will count on this fall.
Schuberger brings a similar edge, with a style built on doing the “dirty work” that doesn’t always show up in headlines. He was one of the team’s leading tacklers last season and is praised as a vocal leader who represents the football program and community extremely well. Burns notes that Schuberger often doesn’t get the recognition he deserves, even though he is central to the Titans’ defensive success. With Stone and Schuberger both returning, Columbus has a rugged, experienced linebacker duo to anchor its 2026 defense.
