Lakeland’s Malik Morris lands on 2025 MaxPreps All-American second team for defense
MaxPreps released its 2025 preseason All-American selections this week, and Lakeland (Fla.) four-star linebacker Malik Morris earned a spot on the second-team defense. Morris is one of the standout players for the Dreadnaughts, who went 13-1 last season and reached the state title game before falling to St. Thomas Aquinas, 34-0.
Morris is a two-way contributor for Lakeland, lining up on offense as well as anchoring the defense. He scored five rushing touchdowns on offense, while his defensive resume this past season was equally impressive: 95 total tackles, nine sacks, three forced fumbles, and one interception.
He shares the second-team linebacker spot with Izayia Williams of Leesburg’s Tavares, a four-star recruit bound for Florida State, and Anthony Jones of St. Paul’s Episcopal in Mobile, a five-star prospect committed to Oregon. On the first team, the honors went to Tyler Atkinson (Texas), Xavier Griffin (Alabama) and Talanoa Ili (USC).
Morris announced his commitment to the Florida Gators in the summer. Florida had offered him in January of the previous year, and the staff’s persistent pursuit helped shape his decision. Morris noted the program’s culture and the way the coaches connect with players as key factors in his choice, emphasizing the impact of coach Napier and staffers like Ron Roberts and Brandon Spikes on his impression of Florida.
Rivals, a composite ranking that weighs multiple recruiting services, lists Morris as the nation’s No. 232 overall prospect.
Outlook and context
This preseason recognition highlights Morris as one of the top two-way standouts in the class, with the versatility to contribute immediately as a playmaker on offense while forming a cornerstone of Lakeland’s defense. His commitment to Florida adds to the Gators’ growing defensive-recruiting momentum and underscores his potential to play a significant role at the college level in the coming seasons.
Summary
Malik Morris’ second-team All-American nod reinforces his status as a premier high school linebacker and a burgeoning two-way threat. With a strong senior season anticipated and a commitment to a traditional football power in Florida, Morris is positioned to build on this recognition as he transitions to college football.
Additional notes
– Morris helped Lakeland reach a state championship appearance last season, a deep playoff run that demonstrated his leadership and versatility.
– The mix of tackling ability, pass-rush potential, and defensive impact makes him one of the more intriguing prospects in Florida’s 2025 recruiting landscape.