For those of us with a few years behind us, the example of an in-your-face linebacker is someone mean and tough. Guys like Ray Nitschke, Mike Ditka and Lawrence Taylor (Google them if you like). Tahlequah senior Xaxton Carshall is a throwback to that era. For him it’s all about being physical. Even his role model exemplifies that demeanor. “Mason Watkins was our middle linebacker when I was a sophomore, and I liked the way he didn’t care who we were playing. He just went and hit everyone the same way to try to win the game,” said Carshall, a VYPE TOP 100 pick for 2025. “Xaxton has been our best starter the last three years. He’s just a great high school player who excels wherever we play him,” said veteran Tiger coach Brad Gilbert. “He was the leading tackler for us his sophomore year playing strong safety against Class 6A competition. We moved him to outside linebacker last year and he led the team again (168 tackles). This year we’re moving him to inside linebacker, and he’ll probably see some action on offense at tight end.” Even then, the tough guy inside Carshall comes out. “On offense it’s not so much about whether I catch the ball or not, but I like the thought of setting some good blocks. I just like to hit people.” Though he’s made lots of hits, Xaxton says the highlight of his career came on special teams. “I returned a kickoff 87 yards for a touchdown my sophomore year in a playoff game against Ponca City.”
Gilbert says Xaxton’s leadership ability is as important to the team as his physicality. “He’s got good leadership qualities, and the kids all just seem to gravitate towards him.” And one more thing that coach and player both agree on is that Xaxton is not always big on practice. Why? You guessed it-because it’s not always physical enough. “I’m not much on just running drills in shorts and helmets but if you put on the pads that’s more to my liking,” laughed Carshall. He’s already got goals in mind for this year- to again get over 100 tackles, at least four sacks and a couple of interceptions. And leading the Tigers deep into the playoffs.
