Duncanville 2026 DE Landon Barnes (6'3, 220) has some big shoes to fill in a Panthers defense that lost five-star DE Colin Simmons and four-star DT Alex January.
Barnes learned much from the two Texas Longhorns signees during the Panthers' march to the 6A Division I crown in 2023.
"They are great guys," Barnes said. "They helped me learn different moves and helped me and my future, so when I start, I have all of the different moves and understand how to set it up.
They told me it is all about the mindset and that you have to prepare and go out there and work hard."
"It is a great opportunity to be here and perform at the level to play and start on the team," Barnes continued. "It is a great program, and I came in to work."
On the field, Barnes is a pass-rushing terror who patterns his game after former Texas high school football legend Von Miller, who starred at Texas A&M before the NFL.
"I watch a lot of stuff on Von Miller," Barnes said. "I watch his moves and how he sets them up. I have watched him ever since college and I like his playing style."
Barnes recently received his first offer from Cal and is receiving the most interest from colleges like Washington, Texas, SMU, Arkansas, Baylor and more.
Barnes was named the DL MVP at the Next Level Athlete D1 Prospect Showcase in Dallas.
This article is available to our Digital Subscribers.
Click "Subscribe Now" to see a list of subscription offers.
Already a Subscriber? Sign In to access this content.
Don't Miss Any Exclusive Coverage!