A Top247 defensive lineman, decommitted from Rutgers after Ohio State and Georgia expressed interest on a fall visit. The 6-foot-4, 215-pound Linton, the class of 2025’s No. 191 overall prospect and No. 24 defensive lineman, committed in early June following an official visit.
Georgia, on the other hand, continued to pursue the in-state prospect from North Atlanta High. The Buckeyes are also involved.
Linton informed Rutgers of his choice on Saturday and subsequently made an announcement.
“My family and I had amazing experiences at @RFootball and met great coaches and athletes,” he said. “So it’s very difficult to post this but at this time I’m re-opening my recruitment.”
Linton, who visited Georgia after committing to Rutgers, plans to return in October. Meanwhile, Ohio State is also pursuing Linton.
Linton camped with Georgia in late May but was not offered since he departed early to travel to Rutgers for a formal visit. He committed at the end of his tour, but Georgia continued to recruit him and extended an offer when he was on campus in late July.
Chidera Uzo-Diribe, the Bulldogs’ outside linebackers coach, worked with Linton.
“He’s a good coach,” Linton told 247Sports before. “He gave me some fantastic advice to take back with me and focus on myself. He was firm, but not overly firm. It was just extremely helpful.”
Here’s a scouting report from Linton’s 247Sports profile: Linton is an emerging pass rusher with impressive multi-sport athleticism for his position, highlighted by a remarkable 44-8.5 triple jump personal best at nearly 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds. Physically, he checks all the boxes with an explosive lower body that generates significant power, a wingspan approaching 80 inches, and elite arm length measurements.
He has the potential to remain at edge rusher long-term but also possesses the physical attributes to transition to the defensive line after time in a college strength and conditioning program. Linton had a solid junior season that showed flashes of dominance, but really stood out with complete performances at the Under Armour Charlotte camp and his 2024 spring game in May. He’s a fluid athlete who can bend and run the arc with ease, thanks to exceptional knee and hip flexibility. His quick first step is backed by top-tier combine testing data.
While his repertoire of pass-rushing moves is still developing, he plays with tremendous effort and should easily expand his skill set as his body matures. Linton is starting to put the pieces together ahead of his senior season and could climb the rankings with a strong final high school campaign. He should be viewed as a highly athletic pass rusher who may need some time to develop before competing at the Power Five level, but with potential to become a dominant force and a high NFL Draft prospect.
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