Under-the-Radar: 2021 Edge Rushers
Our under-the-radar series is designed to highlight talented players across the state that may not have the offers that some others might. Here, we take a look at a few edge rushers that deserve our attention. These are guys that can play both as a traditional defensive end and an off-ball linebacker, depending on the situation. The 2021 class is loaded with these versatile players.
<strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28553" first="Joe" last="Zovistoski"], 6’1 200, Weddington</strong>
I’ve heard more about Zovistoski than any other player in the state this offseason and that’s not an exaggeration. Also a wrestler, Zovistoski keeps his weight down but he’s a beast in the weight room. He played defensive end a season ago, but it looks like he’ll transition off the ball this season. When I saw him at the Carolina Experience camp, he was one of the best in coverage despite a stacked linebacker group.
<strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28543" first="Kai" last="Russell"], 6’1 245, Olympic</strong>
Russell’s ability to start and stop from his defensive end position is impressive and he often surprises offensive tackles with his quickness off the edge. He also has great hands and we love his ability to get after the quarterback. Russell holds an offer from Notre Dame College but once the season starts, his recruitment should start to pick up steam.
<strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28606" first="Dorien" last="Starnes"], 6’1 230, Burns</strong>
Starnes plays a lot of 3-4 defensive end for Burns, but I think he projects more as a 3-4 linebacker or 4-3 edge rusher. Burns has a quick first step and plays the run well. Starnes’ motor is relentless and he’s unphased by double teams. Offensive linemen don’t get a break when they face him and he doesn’t take plays off. He holds offers from VMI and the Citadel so far and should get have more interest going forward.
<strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28531" first="Quinton" last="Hill"], 6’6 190, Havelock</strong>
Hill is an athletic freak who is every bit of 6-foot-6. He’s just learning how to use his length to his advantage and took a major step forward last year as the season progressed. With another offseason to hone his craft, we expect him to look even more refined this season. North Carolina Central stepped in with an offer, but if he dominates consistently (like we saw in flashes last season) he will be a hot commodity on the recruiting trail.
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