Havelock’s 2021 Defensive Playmakers

Analyzing high school teams in North Carolina, Havelock really stood out to me because of the talent they have on defense. This team has game changers at every position on the defensive side of the ball. It’s hard not to think that opposing offenses will struggle against Havelock because of their swarming play style. Here are their top 2021 defensive playmakers: <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28614" first="Jaquon" last="Franks"], DL, 6’3 and 220 lbs, Havelock HS</strong> This nimble defensive lineman moves well for his frame and can shoot through the gap very quickly. Franks is a reliable run defender that uses good tackling technique to bring down running backs. He’s also a solid pass rusher that makes quarterbacks scramble because of his pressure in their face. Jaquon makes plays on stretch runs where he takes excellent angles to tackle RBs. He currently has three offers to this point. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28516" first="Marcus" last="Gatling"], LB, 5’11 and 200 lbs, Havelock HS</strong> Gatling is a do-it-all linebacker that had some of the best tape I’ve ever watched because of his playmaking ability. He can get to the backfield as quick as anyone in the country with his elite burst and has ridiculous closing speed for a LB. Marcus plays with low pad level, disengages from blocks with ease, and hardly ever misses a tackle. He’s so good at diagnosing a run play, then reacting and lunging for the opponent. This takeaway machine has already committed to Wofford. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28531" first="Quinton" last="Hill"], DE, 6’6 and 190 lbs, Havelock HS</strong> This massive defensive end uses his long arms to shed blocks and overpower offensive linemen. Hill is a hard hitter that can pick up running backs and throw them to the ground because of his elite play strength. He shows the ability to set the edge and make plays on outside runs to the boundary. Quinton is a relentless player that has excellent lateral movement and the skill to beat double team blocks. Also, an elite vertical to block punts/field goals. Currently is committed to NC A&amp;T. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28567" first="AJ" last="Moore"], LB, 5’11 and 225 lbs, Havelock HS</strong> Moore is an intelligent linebacker that possesses very good play recognition (INT on screen) and the speed to hit the gap. He defeats blocks with his power and hand use before making strong tackles on his opponents. AJ is a patient player that takes perfect angles to the ball and doesn't allow any extra yards. This run stopper has a thick build and excellent agility for a player at his position. Moore has no known offers so far.