CINCINNATI \u2014 Lakota West grad and Miami RedHawks linebacker Jackson Kuwatch was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the 2026 NFL Draft. <\/p>\n
Kuwatch, a 2021 graduate from Lakota West High School, was redshirted by Ohio State in 2021 and played three games as a reserve in 2022 before transferring to Miami University for the 2023 season. <\/p>\n
During his time with the RedHawks, Kuwatch played as a reserve during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. <\/p>\n
In 2025, Kuwatch had a breakout season and was named third-team All-MAC after starting all 14 games. He earned 109 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and five sacks during the season. <\/p>\n
Kuwatch was the fourth Cincinnati native to be selected during the 2026 draft. <\/p>\n
University of Cincinnati tight end Joe Royer was drafted by the Cleveland Browns<\/a> as the No. 170 pick in the fifth round, and Duke center Brian Parker II was drafted by the Bengals<\/a> shortly after. On Friday, the Los Angeles Rams selected St. Xavier grad Max Klare in the second round. <\/a><\/p>\n SIGN UP: Subscribe to our high school sports newsletter<\/a><\/p>\n More sports:<\/p>\n
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