Southern Miss LB Mathis Haygood: Reliable, physical, and emerging as a defensive leader
Haygood is a tough, every-down linebacker whose value goes beyond the box score: in 2025 at Southern Miss, he played all 13 games, made 44 tackles with 4 tackles for loss, 1 sack, and 1 interception, and he’s now being described as one of the new leaders of the defense after sticking with the program through a coaching change. His profile suggests a downhill, physical fit who brings experience, steadiness, and a team-first mentality rather than flash.
