NDSU LB Peder Haugo: Freshman All-American with Dual-Sport Instincts and 2 Sacks in 2025
Peder Haugo, a 6'1", 220-lb sophomore linebacker for North Dakota State, earned 2025 Phil Steele FCS Freshman All-America Third Team honors after appearing in all 13 games as a freshman, recording 10 solo tackles, 2 sacks, and 1 interception [1][4]. His standout differentiator is his unique background as a former high school running back who played four games at RB in 2024, giving him rare pursuit speed and ball-hawking instincts that pure defensive prospects lack [6][8]. Haugo brings elite intensity and a fearless tackling style, quickly transitioning from offense to become an impact defender in the MVFC, where he landed on the 2024 Honor Roll [1]. With no reported injury history and a reputation for high-energy play, he’s a perfect fit for teams needing a versatile, athletic linebacker who can chase down plays and disrupt in the backfield.
