Names to Know: Class of 2021 Pass Rushers

Ryan Wesley

June 17, 2020 @ 11:00 AM

With so many offenses favoring the passing scheme now, having a defense with a solid pass rush is an absolute must. Here is a list of a few incoming seniors who make the jobs of their DBs much easier by consistently finding ways to cause disruption in the backfield: Tanner Applebee - Resurrection Chrisitan Not only was Applebee the leading sack leader in the state last year, but he also led the nation with 32 recorded sacks during his junior season. The 6-foot-1 190lbs middle linebacker is a superior force on defense. His ability to shoot through any gap or blitz from the edge with remarkable speed makes him unstoppable. In addition to his sack total, the sure tackler has also tallied 121 total tackles, with 91 being solo. Applebee finished the season with three blocked kicks, seven fumble recoveries (one touchdown), and two interceptions that were both returned for 40+ yard touchdowns. As a running back, he ended with a total of 75 carries for 489 yards with five touchdowns. [player_tooltip player_id="22532" first="Clay" last="Nanke"] - Regis Jesuit The 6-foot-6 210lbs defensive end tallied 31 quarterback hurries that put him at third in the state, first in his class. Ranked 16th in the Prep Redzone Colorado rankings, he is extremely effective as a four-technique and as an edge rusher. He recorded 89 total tackles (48 solo), 9.5 sacks, four pass deflections, and one fumble recovery last year. Nanke also uses his size and skill on the offensive side of the ball as a tight end who had 12 receptions for 112 yards with one touchdown last year. Emmanuel Nwaneto - Far Northeast Nwaneto is a true pocket disrupter. He is a defensive end who possesses a versatile skill set that enables him to play as a nose tackle. What stands out the most about him is his ability to fire off the ball and his strength. The 5-foot-11 245lbs lineman recorded 26 hurries, 68 tackles (43 solo), and three sacks. The two-way player also lines up as a fullback who had 18 carries for 88 yards with one touchdown, as well as one reception for 35 yards. Andex Bumba - Jefferson Bumba is a 5-foot-9 194lbs edge-rushing outside linebacker. He tallied 70 total tackles (43 solo), 15 sacks, and 11 hurries. Lining up as a five-technique from a two-point stance makes his combination of strength and speed extremely effective, but do not underestimate his skill as a four technique. Bumba possesses a level of patience when rushing that makes delayed handoffs and RPOs challenging to execute against him. Bumba is an “under the radar” type talent whose stock should rise immensely during his senior season.