Warren Central linebacker Taylen Smith returning to help lead the Viking defense

Warren Central linebacker Taylen Smith is returning this season to help lead the Vikings defense as they prepare for their season opener in a couple of week.

Smith was a huge part of the Vikings defense last season as he led Warren Central to the first round of the playoffs. He was the Vikings leader in sacks in the 2019 season, finishing with six on the year.

The Vikings finished 6-6 last season with the help of Smith who had a total of 50 tackles, six sacks, and one interception. With the loss of a couple of key players from the Viking defense this year, Smith is expected to step up big in his senior year.

Smith has been in off-season training with the Vikings and will lead the defense on the field against Vicksburg High School in the season opener scheduled for Sept. 4 at 7 p.m.