DALLAS BRANNON
LINEBACKER, INDEPENDENCE HIGH SCHOOL

The Luke Kuechly High School Defensive Player of the Year Award recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of high school players both on and off the field in areas of leadership, sportsmanship, scholarship, and citizenship. This year’s winner is Dallas Brannon, a senior linebacker from Independence High School.

A three-year varsity captain and one of the most decorated defensive players in the Charlotte region, Brannon has been the driving force behind Independence’s defensive identity. Known for his physicality, preparation, and command of the field, Dallas has compiled a remarkable career total of 383 tackles, along with 26 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 1 interception, a blocked punt, and 2 touchdowns. His performance earned him recognition as the Southwestern 4A Defensive Player of the Year, Charlotte Observer All-Region First Team, All-State Honorable Mention, and Team MVP for the 2023–2024 season. This year, he was also nominated to play in the Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas, one of the most prestigious postseason events for high school football in the Southeast.

Dallas does far more than lead statistically—he sets the emotional and cultural tone for his team. Whether it’s encouraging teammates during practice, or modeling resilience in adversity, he leads with authenticity and humility. When a mid-season strategy change limited his touches on offense, he embraced his new role without hesitation, supporting the team from the sideline and even stepping into assistant-coach-style support when sidelined due to injury. His example of selflessness, work ethic, and maturity has strengthened the unity and confidence of the entire program.

In the classroom, Dallas has maintained a 4.4 GPA and ranks Top 10 in a graduating class of 479 students. He is a member of the Rho Kappa National Honor Society and even extended his leadership into the arts by performing in the school musical, Grease, demonstrating well-rounded involvement and personal confidence beyond athletics.

His leadership extends deeply into the school community. Dallas serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Yearbook, has graduated from the Thomas Davis Defending Dreams leadership program, and participated in the Communities in Schools Difference Makers Program. He has spoken at elementary school leadership events, showing younger students what character-driven success looks like.

Dallas is equally committed to service. He has volunteered with CU360, the Defending Dreams Foundation, and Elevation Church, while also mentoring teammates, helping guide the next generation with encouragement, accountability, and support. His impact reaches well beyond Friday nights—into classrooms, huddles, hallways, youth programs, and the Charlotte community.

Respected across the region for both his performance and his integrity, Dallas Brannon reflects the spirit of this award—competitive excellence, leadership grounded in service, and character that elevates others.

The Charlotte Touchdown Club and Nance Construction are proud to present Dallas Brannon with the Luke Kuechly High School Defensive Player of the Year Award.