Most Underrated DL in Charlotte

Charlotte, North Carolina produces a lot of high school football talent each year, and 2021 is no different. This class has instant game changers on the defensive line that will be a force at the college level. However, I’ve found the lesser known D-Linemen that deserve to get more recognition for their play and increased attention from D-1 schools. Here are the most underrated DL in Charlotte: <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28626" first="Jonathan" last="Slaughter"], DE, 6’0 and 230 lbs, Mallard Creek HS</strong> Slaughter is a penetrating defensive lineman that has the ability to stuff the run and create havoc as a pass rusher. He is constantly beating blocks by pushing O-Linemen backward and using his hands to discard his opponents. Jonathan has good speed for his size that he uses to get around offensive tackles when rushing the QB. He also never gives up on the play, has good play recognition on screen passes, and is a consistent tackler. Currently does not have any known offers. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28592" first="Gavin" last="Thomas"], DL, 6’6 and 240 lbs, Cuthbertson HS</strong> Thomas is a disciplined D-Lineman that shows patience on the field, which allows him to be in position to make plays. He is very good at disguising his rush lane and displays excellent ball awareness on fumbles and trick plays. Even though he seems to always be in the backfield, Gavin also uses his lengthy arms to deflect throws at the line of scrimmage. He can bull rush opposing offensive linemen with his strength and also has the talent to move across multiple gaps to make the play. This high effort players has offers from NC Central, Wingate, and Citadel. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28558" first="Ty" last="Nicholas"], DT, 6’4 and 260 lbs, Piedmont HS</strong> Nicholas is a disruptive defensive lineman that clogs the run up the middle and uses his bend to get around O-Linemen. He is so good at getting his hands on opponents first, which allows him to gain control and then beat the block with ease. Ty is a pass rush specialist because he is quick at the snap of the ball and has strong tackling technique. He possesses elite play recognition on screen/runs and has the skill to beat double team blocks. Right now has offers from Columbia, Wingate, Marist, and FIU. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28549" first="Jared" last="Crawl-Bey"], DL, 6’5 and 240 lbs, Mallard Creek HS</strong> Crawl-Bey is an edge-setting defensive lineman that doesn’t allow opposing running backs to get outside of him when lined up as a DE. He creates constant pressure because he is quick around the edge and has an effective swim move he uses to beat blocks. Jared shoots the gap before offensive linemen are in position, which is a rare trait to have. He showcases good hand use and gets his hands in the way to tip passes. Has a couple offers including NC A&amp;T.