Joseph M Bustos

Joseph M Bustos — 3-star Linebacker prospect, Class of 2028 from Lakeland , Florida (Lakeland Christian School). Verified football recruiting profile, star rating, measurables and scouting report on National Radar.

Sport
Football
Position
Linebacker / Defensive Lineman
Class
2028
High School / Program
Lakeland Christian School
Hometown
Lakeland , Florida
Height
5’11”
Weight
195 lb
40 Yard Dash
4.59
Vertical Jump
34”
Bench Press
300
Squat
445
GPA
4.5
Star Rating
3-star prospect
Status
National Radar Verified prospect

Scouting report

Joseph Bustos is a disruptive Class of 2028 defensive prospect who jumps off the film with his explosiveness, quick-twitch ability, and relentless motor. Bustos is especially dangerous coming off the left edge, where his first step and closing speed allow him to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks. His production matches the film. During the 2025 season, Bustos recorded 86 total tackles, 12.5 sacks, eight quarterback hurries, and one interception in 11 games, leading Lakeland Christian in tackles per game, sacks, and quarterback hurries. Bustos is far more than a pass rusher. He plays with tremendous pursuit against the run and shows the ability to chase the football from sideline to sideline. He attacks downhill aggressively, gets into the backfield, and consistently creates negative plays before they have an opportunity to develop. What separates Bustos is his motor—he is a relentless defender who continues pursuing the football until the whistle. Whether he is rushing off the edge, attacking inside, or tracking down a ball carrier in space, he consistently finds a way to impact the play. From a projection standpoint, Bustos has the versatility to develop as an outside linebacker or EDGE defender at the next level. His combination of burst, physicality, production, pursuit speed, and natural pass-rushing ability makes him a difficult matchup for opposing offenses. With 12.5 sacks as only a sophomore, Bustos has already demonstrated his ability to take over football games from the defensive side of the ball. As he continues to develop physically and refine his technique, Joseph Bustos is a high-upside defensive prospect with the tools and relentless mentality to become an increasingly dominant player.

Honors and accolades