Senior Sleepers: Part 3

<strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Zach Wingerter, LB, 6’2, 230, Minooka</span></strong> <span data-preserver-spaces="true">If you were to build a mike linebacker, just off sheer size, it would probably look similar to Minooka’s Zach Wingerter. Wingerter plays strong on film and consistently speeds his feet on contact when filling a hole. He refuses to give up any ground in the running game and will take on any ball carrier. He’s a natural in pass coverage and doesn’t get baited into jumping short crossing routes. His ability to get extension on offensive lineman and rip off of them is almost textbook-like. He’s a smart, fundamentally sound linebacker who understands his own strengths and weaknesses.</span> <strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Michael Newson, DB, 6’5, 200, Lyons</span></strong> <span data-preserver-spaces="true">This is a long cornerback prospect, with surprisingly loose hips for a guy his size. Newson has a clean backpedal and has no issues transitioning into a lateral run. He does a great job of reading three-step drops and getting out of his breaks. His footwork is tight and compact. Newson is physical at the point of attack and will even hip toss wideouts off of him. Newson is falling under the radar right now, but with a big senior season, statistically, colleges are going to take notice.</span> <strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Sam Pryor, OL, 6’1, 270, Kaneland</span></strong> <span data-preserver-spaces="true">I personally believe if Sam Pryor were two inches taller, he’d be one of the more highly recruited offensive lineman in all of Illinois. He has a great base and does an excellent job of running his feet. He makes a point to roll his hips and punch on a rise. He’s one of the most physical offensive linemen in the state and relishes pancaking defensive players. He has no issues pulling on either power or counter-play and doesn’t have a tendency to lunge at players. Pryor is one of my favorite players in Illinois’ 2021 class and deserves much more recognition than he’s getting. He projects as a center at the next level.</span> <strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">[player_tooltip player_id="20334" first="Travis" last="Turner"], LB, 6’2, 220, North Chicago</span></strong> <span data-preserver-spaces="true">Turner was everywhere on film in 2019. This kid is so instinctive and accelerates through whatever is in his way. Turner has ideal size for a linebacker and could play inside or outside linebacker at the next level. Turner plays mean on the field and is a ferocious tackler. He shows no issues in pass coverage; as he trusts his eyes and breaks on the quarterback. He features a powerful punch and was a nightmare for blockers. This kid is one of the best-kept secrets in the 2021 class, and to me is an FBS prospect.</span>