Mississippi State’s playmaking, do-it-all linebacker
Zakari Tillman looks like a rising SEC defender with real impact traits: in the 2025 season, he posted 47 tackles, 3.5 sacks, one interception, and a forced fumble, building on a 2024 breakout that included 30 tackles, 3.5 sacks, a pick, a fumble recovery, and a blocked punt. Mississippi State has praised his growth and “strides” as a sophomore, and his recruiting profile showed a linebacker with safety instincts—exactly the kind of hybrid, high-motor, versatile piece that coaches love. He’s the sort of player who can change field position and momentum, not just fill a stat sheet.
