
A.J. Newman brings proven tackling production and ball-disrupting linebacker instincts to Western Carolina
A.J. Newman’s profile stands out for production and impact plays: over his four-year Western Carolina career, he finished with 255 total tackles, 109 solo stops, eight tackles for loss, four forced fumbles and one recovery[1]. That stat line points to a linebacker who is active, reliable in pursuit, and capable of creating turnovers, not just cleaning up plays[1]. With ESPN listing him as a Western Carolina linebacker, the key appeal is his proven college-game durability and disruptive edge—useful for a team looking for a trusted, physical defender who shows up around the football.[3][1]