Before the season, the inside linebacker duo of Jayton Stuckey and Maison Dickinson were expected to be the leaders of the Abilene High defense.

Both all-district performers in the 2020, the two senior standouts were considered by coach Mike Fullen to be the heart and soul of that unit.

With a knee injury ending Dickinson’s season in AHS’ opener against Amarillo Tascosa and a hand injury claiming the remainder of Stuckey’s campaign just five games in, things haven’t worked out as either had hoped or expected this fall. But while they’re no longer able to contribute on the field, the two have maintained active roles on the team and in doing so, have remained a significant part of the Eagles’ heartbeat.