Six under the radar prospects to watch this winter

I’m thankful for the opportunity to scout these young men and help them find a college home so they can continue to play the game they love and have fun doing it. Jacob Lemming tweeted about my hiring as The Main Scout in Southern/Central Illinois area, and athletes from all over the state have reached out by following and messaging me as well. I am so excited to get started on this incredible journey. So in light of that, I want to speak on some of the go-getters that started right away, putting their front foot forward; that’s what I would love to see from more kids all over the area. No harm in trying to do what you love for as long as you can. LB/RB: TY “ The Russian” Hopp, 6’1, 220, Aurora Central Catholic, 2022 His sophomore season, he dominated at running the ball with his acceleration and quick cuts you wouldn’t expect from a player his size. 6’1 220 (4.57 40 Bench Press-375 Squat-550). He catches the ball on the move well. Jump to the other side of the ball at Inside Linebacker. He sees the play develop and attacks by running through ball carriers and sheds the with ferocity. The strength he possesses is on another level for a player at his position and age. Expect big things for this young man over the next year! Ty was adopted from Russia hence the name, which is intriguing in itself. When I asked him to talk a little bit about himself, and his response was nothing short of confident and bold. QB: Jake Ackman, 5’10, 181, NewmanCC, 2021 Footwork in the pocket is consistent and can throw on the run with accuracy when needing to get out. Isn’t a telegraph; you can see the check-downs as the play develops, and the touch puts on the ball is phenomenal, especially when throwing downfield (most comfortable in the five-step drop and roll out pass). Consistently is in throwing motion; his hands are always ready to fire it. Jake had no hesitation in contacting me, and he is an extraordinary young man who won a Class 2A State Title in 2019. He knows he isn’t the stereotype QB most recruiters look for, but understands that and makes up for it with outstanding technique and studying his opponents. TE/WR/DE: [player_tooltip player_id="20280" first="Lucas" last="Althaus"], 6’6, 230, Alwood, 2021 Breaking down his game, he is a man among boys out there at 6’6 he skips right over the top of any defender for jump balls. At 6’6, he has an NFL build and will high point and control who comes down with it ( REDZONE TARGET). He is a player who lines up at Y in any offense with extreme confidence. His high motor doesn’t take plays off, which, in my opinion, separates most players. Lucas reached out immediately; we have had great conversations on some of his qualities. Hard-working in everything and plays passionate and competitive, he wants the ball in his hands when the game is on the line. Very coachable, embrace’s the grind, and pushes himself as well as his teammates around him. I cant wait to see him start contributing to wherever he chooses to further his academic education. Look to be one of the top TE in the state in 2021. Offensive Line (Center): Steven Young, 6’2, 275, Kankakee, 2023 This young freshman started for Varsity has a prototype frame for his position, excellent footwork, and power with a high motor. Punishes defenders in his path with a BP-295, Squat-425, 5.0 40, and has a quick first step. Wins with leverage with feet that don’t stop chopping. Steven is enjoying the new experience of football, seeing how this was his 1st time ever playing the game. A lot of potential for this 2023 recruit, so keep him on your radars. QB: [player_tooltip player_id="20221" first="Reed" last="Braundmeier"], 6’3, 196,Mater Dei Catholic HS, 2021 The upcoming senior can throw accurately 60 yards down the field (Whoa). Is in throwing motion ready to thread the needle. Excellent footwork in the pocket and can use his legs to get out (4.6 40). He has the right size at 6’3 196 for the next level that much is apparent, and he can also take a hit inside the pocket, keeping his eyes downfield to deliver the ball. Reed has already received offers from D2 schools and has some more notable schools giving him looks. I gathered from speaking with Reed, who takes great pride in his family that includes his teammates; this is an excellent trait for the culture of a program. QB: Keegan Glover, 6’0, 165, Benton HS, 2022 This junior QB is an accurate downfield while working through his reads. His footwork is excellent, especially on the run. Can make some tough throws many can’t make ( Out Routes). Can put the touch on the ball when needed as well while breaking down the defense. Strongarm and still growing. I was fortunate enough for Keegan to put together a workout for me with some of his teammates. It was great to meet the young man well spoken wants to play the game as loves as he can; he is focused on football and playing on the next level.