An Aledo linebacker is the 2023 Fort Worth-Area Preseason Defensive Player of the Year
Aledo linebacker Davhon Keys, an LSU commit, is the Star-Telegram’s 2023 Fort Worth-Area Preseason Defensive Player of the Year.
Keys, an athlete who plays on both sides of the ball, forced four turnovers and recorded 123 tackles as a junior. He also rushed for 166 yards and 13 touchdowns.
His elite performance in 2022 helped lead Aledo to a Class 5A-D1 State Championship.
“Knowing that I was able to help my team make it to state and then win state,” Keys said. “It really was a great feeling.”
Keys said relationships and chemistry made the Bearcats thrive.
“The stronger our relationship grew, the better we played together,” Keys said. “There was more connection during the game. We were playing for our teammates. Playing for the people around us.”
This season, one of Keys’ goals is to be more of a vocal leader.
“I want to help my teammates with anything,” Keys said. “Whether it’s life, school or football.”
On the field, Keys said he is aiming to record 150 total tackles and seven forced turnovers while defending Aledo’s state championship.
Both sides of the ball
Keys said that linebacker and running back are similar positions, given the use of speed, power and agility. The main difference is whether you react to a movement or formulate a plan yourself.
Keys said that playing both sides of the ball can get tiring and “takes a toll” on the body.
“You have to be not only mentally prepared but physically prepared,” Keys said. “Conditioning is very important. Mental toughness is very important.”
Keys, who competed in power lifting and has a 6-foot, 215 pound frame, said he trains hard in the weight room to develop strength. He said he has a 600 pound squat, a 355 pound bench press and a 600 pound deadlift.
He said Olympic style lifts, such as the power clean, help more with strength and speed on the field. They are a tool that has allowed him to become one of the best players in the Fort Worth-area.
“I’m trying to be as explosive as possible,” Keys said. “It definitely helps with being explosive on the field, going through a tackle or trying to break a tackle.”
A future as a Tiger
On March 11, Keys committed to LSU. He grew up in Louisiana before moving to Aledo in the fourth grade.
Keys said LSU was the best fit and mentioned having a strong relationship with defensive coordinator Matt House.
“I love the campus and everything about the school,” Keys said. “The culture at LSU is great.”
Currently, Keys is preparing to attempt to secure a third state championship with Aledo. The Bearcats will open their season at 8 p.m. Friday at Bearcat Stadium.
He said his experience at Aledo has been a good one.
“Everyone is welcoming,” Keys said. “It’s been like a family. I don’t have any complaints.”
Off the field, Keys said he loves to read, write, lift weights and run. He trains younger football players, including his younger brother, who is 12.
Keys said his parents are his role models. He said they taught him to be respectful and responsible.
“Many of my main personality traits have been developed by my parents,” Keys said. “I’m truly grateful for that.”
