Defensive Prospects to Watch in Essex County
Greg Patuto
Essex County has some elite talent on the defensive side of the ball heading into 2020. Whether these prospects play defensive primarily or are standouts on both sides, they are great at what they do. Here are the top defensive prospects in the area heading into the season.
<strong>[player_tooltip player_id="27861" first="Khayri" last="Banton"] (2021) | West Side</strong>
Banton is a four-star recruit that led one of the top defenses in the county. The Rutgers commit finished his junior year with 62 tackles, seven sacks, four forced fumbles, and four fumble recoveries. Banton led a defense that did not allow a point in five games and kept opposing teams in single-digits eight times. Banton is as elite as they come in New Jersey, ranking in the top five and being the No. 1 linebacker.
<strong>[player_tooltip player_id="27867" first="Mikai" last="Gbayor"] (2021) | Irvington</strong>
Gbayor has recently narrowed down his recruiting to a top five. He is a middle linebacker with great explosion and speed. His stats are that of an outside linebacker or defensive end. Gbayor can wreck a game on the defensive end. Nebraska, Michigan State, Kentucky, Ole Miss, and West Virginia are the five schools fighting to land a huge talent out of New Jersey.
<strong>[player_tooltip player_id="27869" first="Shaquon" last="Loyal"] (2021) | West Side</strong>
Loyal is part of a dominant defense along with Banton. They will return and be one of the top units in the state once again. Loyal has great closing speed on the outside. He finished the year with two interceptions and two forced fumbles. He is a hard corner to create separation on.Another Rutgers commit, Loyal is primed for a big season and career at the next level.
<strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28036" first="Ahmad" last="Nalls"] (2022) | East Orange</strong>
Nalls emerged as a star for East Orange during his sophomore season. He showed his ability to be a strong tackler and have a nose for the football. Nalls picked up many offers during his second season and that number will rise during his years as an upperclassman.
<strong>Giye Jenkins (2021) | Seton Hall Prep</strong>
Jenkins is a standout on the football field and the basketball court. He doubles as a wide receiver but thrives on the defensive end. He finished with 60 tackles as a junior. Jenkins has great speed and agility on the outside. He is an intriguing prospect to keep an eye on heading into the season.
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