Brayden Rouse Narrows Recruitment to Four Finalists

One of the top linebackers in the 2026 class has trimmed his list. Brayden Rouse, a 6-foot-3, 205-pound standout from Marietta (Ga.) Kell, has named Alabama, Michigan, Texas, and Tennessee as his final four schools.
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Rouse is rated as the No. 96 overall prospect in the country, the No. 6 linebacker nationally, and the No. 10 player in Georgia, according to the On3 Industry Ranking.
The Longhorns recently hosted Rouse for a spring visit that left a strong impression. Speaking with Chad Simmons of On3, Rouse said Texas made a significant move in his recruitment.
“Texas really impressed me in every way,” Rouse told On3. “I got to sit in on meetings, watch practice, tour the campus, and explore the city. Everything about it stood out—the staff, the energy, the organization.”
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He highlighted connections with defensive coordinator Johnny Nansen, director of high school relations Chris Gilbert, and recruiting staffer Josh Dunson.
While Texas made a major impression, each of Rouse’s top four has given him plenty to think about.
At Michigan, he said the program made him feel right at home.
Alabama remains a strong contender due to the familiarity and mutual interest.
Tennessee is also firmly in the mix.
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Rouse has yet to set a commitment date, but with Texas rising and three traditional powers also involved, his recruitment will be one to watch closely heading into summer.
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