Bulldogs Fight to Land Coveted Linebacker

STARKVILLE, Miss. — Mississippi State is in strong contention to secure one of its top remaining targets for the 2026 class, as 3-star defensive lineman Chris Carbin has narrowed his choices to just two programs.

The Powder Springs, Georgia native will make his decision between Mississippi State and Georgia Tech, with a commitment announcement scheduled for July 4.

Considered a versatile edge rusher, Chris Carbin has the athleticism to line up at either linebacker or defensive end. The 3-star prospect enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2024, racking up 49 tackles, nine tackles for loss, six sacks, two pass breakups, and a forced fumble.

Carbin initially named a top five in late May that included Mississippi State, Georgia Tech, Baylor, Virginia Tech, and Louisville. Of those programs, Virginia Tech was the only one that did not receive an official visit.

His official visit to Starkville marked his first trip to Mississippi State, where the coaching staff emphasized the opportunity for early playing time as part of the program’s effort to rebuild its defensive front.

Meanwhile, Georgia Tech has hosted Carbin multiple times during his recruitment, a convenience bolstered by the school’s close proximity—less than 40 minutes—from his hometown of Powder Springs, Georgia. That familiarity, along with being one of the first Power Conference schools to extend an offer, could weigh heavily in the Yellow Jackets’ favor.

Despite narrowing his choices to just two schools, Carbin boasts an impressive offer list with over 30 programs expressing interest, including Georgia Southern, Georgia State, Kansas State, Appalachian State, East Carolina, Liberty, UConn, Memphis, Wake Forest, Virginia, Minnesota, West Virginia, and others.

Mississippi State’s 2026 recruiting class has gained significant momentum in recent weeks, now totaling 15 commitments. The class is currently headlined by 3-star athlete Jaiden Taylor out of Macon.

According to the 247Sports Composite rankings, the Bulldogs’ class ranks No. 10 in the SEC and No. 42 nationally.

While Mississippi State has yet to land a high school linebacker commitment for the 2026 cycle, linebackers coach Vincent Dancy has the Bulldogs in strong position for top target Maurice Jones, Jr.

Defensive improvement will be a major focus for the program, as the Bulldogs struggled on that side of the ball last season—allowing 456 total yards per game. The run defense, in particular, was a glaring weakness, finishing No. 130 nationally while giving up 217 rushing yards per contest.