Spotlight: Tahlequah’s Own Xaxton Carshall – A Throwback Linebacker
- Drew Haley
- Aug 26
- 2 min read
When you think of an old-school linebacker, the image that comes to mind is tough, fearless, and relentless. Names like Ray Nitschke, Mike Ditka, and Lawrence Taylor once defined that role. Today, Tahlequah High School senior Xaxton Carshall is carrying that tradition forward.
For Xaxton, the game has always been about one thing: physicality. Even his role models reflect that mindset.
“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,” Xaxton shared.
That attitude has made him one of the most impactful players in Oklahoma, earning him a spot as a VYPE Top 100 pick for 2025.
A Proven Leader on the Field
Head coach Brad Gilbert has no shortage of praise for his standout senior.
“Xaxton has been our best starter the last three years. He’s just a great high school player who excels wherever we play him.”
The stats back it up:
Sophomore Year – Leading tackler at strong safety against Class 6A competition.
Junior Year – Shifted to outside linebacker, racking up 168 tackles to once again lead the team.
Senior Year – Transitioning to inside linebacker, with additional time on offense at tight end.
Whether on defense or offense, Xaxton’s mindset never changes:
“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.”
Career Highlights and Goals Ahead
Despite his defensive dominance, Xaxton’s favorite memory came on special teams.
“I returned a kickoff 87 yards for a touchdown my sophomore year in a playoff game against Ponca City.”
Looking ahead to his senior season, Xaxton’s goals are clear:
Record 100+ tackles again
Add at least 4 sacks and 2 interceptions
Lead the Tigers deep into the playoffs
More Than Just Toughness
Coach Gilbert emphasizes that Xaxton brings more than physical play to the team:
“He’s got good leadership qualities, and the kids all just seem to gravitate towards him.”
But true to his throwback nature, Xaxton admits practice isn’t always his favorite part of football—unless it gets physical.
“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,” he laughed.
Eyes on the Future
As Xaxton gears up for his final season with the Tigers, Tahlequah fans can expect the same grit, toughness, and leadership that have defined his career so far. He’s a reminder of what makes high school football so exciting—hard hits, big plays, and heart.
At Tahlequah Family Vision Clinic, we love celebrating local athletes like Xaxton who lead with determination and vision—both on and off the field.