Kyle Whittingham Calls Lander Barton “One Of The Best Linebackers In The Country”

SALT LAKE CITY – Utah linebacker Lander Barton could be in line for a career year after yet another productive season as a junior in 2024.

Head coach Kyle Whittingham spoke on Barton, saying that he’s “got it all” both on and off the field.

“Lander Barton is one of the best linebackers in the country,” Whittingham said. “He’s got it all. He’s got size, speed, strength, instincts, and he’s a guy that’s been a great leader for us ever since he’s got into our program.”

Barton was ranked 3rd on our 60 in 60 list last season.

See where he gets placed on this year’s list after the 2025 College Football season.

About Utah’s Lander Barton

Barton is a junior linebacker from Cottonwood Heights, Utah.

At Brighton High School, Barton was named a High School All-American, invited to the All-American Bowl, was a two-time all-state first-team selection, a two-time all-region first-team, and earned the Region 6 MVP in 2020.

Coming out of high school, Barton was a four-star recruit, rated the No. 2 recruit in the state of Utah, and the No. 17 linebacker in the nation.

In his freshman season in 2022, Barton saw action in all 14 games (3 starts). He led all freshman Utes with 46 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks.

Barton was named to the College Football News Freshman All-America Second Team. He was also the Pac-12 Freshman Defensive Player of the Year.

Make that TWENTY consecutive seasons with a pick-6!!

Well done, @BanderLarton!

📺 https://t.co/iAQl9Yl4OD#GoUtes pic.twitter.com/nj6GaEe9Lw

— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) September 16, 2023

In his sophomore season, Barton started the first seven games before suffering a season-ending injury. He recorded 34 tackles, 0.5 tackles for loss, four passes defended, two pass breakups, two interceptions, and a forced fumble.

Last year as a junior, Barton started in all 12 games and posted 72 total tackles (37 solo), five tackles for loss, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, and two interceptions.

Barton’s two brothers, Mom and Dad, all played sports at the University of Utah. In 2023, Barton ranked No. 9 on the 60 in 60 list.

What is the 60 in 60?

Hans and Scotty highlight college football players in the state of Utah with their annual 60 in 60 watchlist.

Check back after the 2025 College Football season to see the final 60 in 60 list.

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