The Top Sophomore Linebacker In Texas: Brayden Bonik
Brayden Bonik is a 4 Star recruit who plays Linebacker at Ridge Point High School. Bonik is ranked as the 100th best recruit in the class of 2028 and is ranked as a top 10 Linebacker in the class as well. In addition, Bonik is listed as a top 10 recruit in the state of Texas and is listed as the #1 Linebacker in the state of Texas. He holds offers from schools such as Georgia, Oklahoma and Penn State.
Who are some role models in your life?
Some role models in my life are my parents, who always want what’s best for me and sacrifice everything for me; my Uncle Stan, who is always someone I can reach out to for help with life situations; and my trainers Keith Caton and Billy Granville, who not only make sure I’m developing in every aspect as a player but also make sure I’m an even better person off the field.
What artists do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?
I like to listen to classical music pregame—like Mozart and Beethoven—to ease my mind and put me in a calm state before I let loose on the field.
What are the strengths of your game?
My strengths as a player are my speed to the ball, my physicality and aggression, and the effort I give every snap. I go 110% wherever I am, every down.
What is your favorite memory of your career?
My favorite memory in my career is getting moved up to varsity as a freshman. It really made me happy to see all my hard work pay off.
Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?
The best player I’ve played with is QB Austin Carslie. He’s a true game-changer and always clutch when you need him most.
What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?
Focus on your own path—not the person next to you. Your time will come.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
If I could travel anywhere, it would probably be Big Sky, Montana. I’m an outdoors person, and I love to connect with and take in nature.
How old were you when you fell in love with the game?
I fell in love with the game when I was about 13, after picking up my first offer from South Carolina. It made me hungry—I knew I had a real future in football and became fully dedicated to giving everything I had to this sport until I can’t give it anything more.
If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?
If I could meet one sports hero, it would be James Harrison. I’m a huge Steelers fan, and I admire how he went from being an undrafted free agent to an All-Pro defensive lineman.
What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?
My favorite moment as a fan was when Collin Oliver sacked Caleb Williams in the last two minutes of the final Bedlam game between OU and Oklahoma State to ice the win.
