Unsigned Prospects: Defensive Backs

With early signing day for the class of 2021 being behind us, there are still so many talented players who are available to be added to a college roster. In this case, we will be looking at a few defensive players who could immediately impact a collegiate secondary. The names on this list are not only defensive players who made a lasting impression among their peers; they are also easily considered to be among some of the top talent the state has to offer.   [caption id="attachment_44633" align="alignnone" width="300"]<img class="size-medium wp-image-44633" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/redzone/uploads/2020/08/B9CC489C-11A1-4D6A-A9EE-097B201BB359.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /> [player_tooltip player_id="44629" first="Chyon" last="Kendrick"][/caption]  [player_tooltip player_id="44629" first="Chyon" last="Kendrick"] | Eaglecrest | 6’1” | Corner Kendrick is a versatile corner with a <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2EnmqP" target="_blank" rel="noopener">high football IQ</a> and lockdown capabilities. His first movements off the snap are smooth, quick, and methodical, making him tough to beat on releases. His eye discipline and ability to recognize passing concepts and route patterns are testaments to his dedication to off-field work. Kendrick’s physicality is another one of his standout qualities; he is unafraid to make his presence felt by coming downhill and lowering his pads for a hit. Whether he is playing man coverage or zone, Kendrick is an absolute stud who will be a significant asset for any program. Enoch Woolfork | Cherry Creek | 5’10” | DB Woolfork is a <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2Eq1Rb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">two-time state champion</a> defensive back with impeccable talent. He possesses the versatility to play as an outside corner, free safety, and nickel corner. What makes Woolfork an immediate standout is the fluidity of his movements. His backpedal is borderline elite, and his explosiveness coming out of breaks is electric. Woolfork is the type of player who would be the perfect addition to any team, especially at the nickel position. [caption id="attachment_42289" align="alignnone" width="300"]<img class="size-medium wp-image-42289" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/redzone/uploads/2020/08/CB06E5CB-F149-4832-9411-22F7E015C010-1-300x262.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="262" /> [player_tooltip player_id="43321" first="Jaheim" last="Roper"][/caption]  [player_tooltip player_id="43321" first="Jaheim" last="Roper"] | Overland | 6’0” | DB/ATH Roper is the type of corner who embodies the dog mentality. He is a physical player who can match his <a href="https://twitter.com/smoovj5/status/1329297793941266432?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">aggressive playing style</a> with a perfect mixture of raw athleticism and skill. Roper’s knack for finding the football makes him a legitimate nightmare for the offense, especially whenever the ball is in the air within his vicinity. Whichever defense ends up with Roper on its roster will immediately raise its level of play. [caption id="attachment_44635" align="alignnone" width="300"]<img class="size-medium wp-image-44635" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/redzone/uploads/2020/08/213CB182-5943-4AC8-B334-B70B7EF4A332.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /> [player_tooltip player_id="37355" first="Elijah" last="Graham"][/caption]  [player_tooltip player_id="37355" first="Elijah" last="Graham"] | Cherokee Trail | 6’0” | Safety After transferring from Washington, Graham left a lasting impression during his <a href="https://twitter.com/Elijah_graham03/status/1335038943612432385?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">final high school season</a> in Colorado. His determination to get better every rep is deeply embedded within his playing style. Graham is a ball-hawking safety who seems to always be where the ball is. His quick decision-making is what helps him standout while on the field. His read steps are precise, his level of awareness is unmatched, and his ability to cover ground is next level. Graham asserted himself as one of Colorado's top safeties, with only three games played in the box state. Any program looking to beef up their secondary should add Graham to their list. [player_tooltip player_id="66128" first="Andrew" last="Piper"] | Erie | 6’1” | Strong Safety/OLB Hybrid/ATH Piper is a <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2EXMbs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">do-all type of athlete</a> with an impressive skillset built upon a very athletic foundation. With his combination of size and speed, it becomes obvious why he was heavily relied on to fill multiple roles for the Tigers. He is fast and agile enough to cover over the top or come down and matchup with a receiver one-on-one. Piper is also explosive enough to lineup as an outside backer with the sole purpose of getting into the backfield to wreak havoc. One of his most highlighting playing qualities is his ability to deliver devastating hits. Even as a receiver, Piper’s willingness to seek out contact and drive through his opponent is showstopping. Piper is, perhaps, one of the top sleepers in his class. [caption id="attachment_68221" align="alignnone" width="300"]<img class="size-medium wp-image-68221" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/redzone/uploads/2020/10/34C73C06-05ED-4302-AFAA-57CB4219356D.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /> [player_tooltip player_id="22640" first="Will" last="Lester"][/caption]  [player_tooltip player_id="22640" first="Will" last="Lester"] | Ralston Valley | 6’1” | Linebacker/Strong Safety Hybrid Very few players <a href="https://twitter.com/WillLester42/status/1341491410403377152?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">garner the type of attention</a> that Lester does on and off the field. His ability to lead his team is not something that he was taught; it is merely a part of who he is. The energy that he plays with is intoxicating, which makes his teammates want to match his intensity. No matter the play, wherever the ball is will be where he is. His size, speed, awareness, strength, and leadership skills all make him an instant standout on the field. One thing about Lester that may not be highlighted in his film is his ability to cover a receiver as if he were a smaller cornerback. The fluidity within his movements during one-on-one’s will make you wonder if there is anything he cannot do. Even though he has asserted himself as a dominating middle linebacker for the Mustangs, Lester’s skillset would make him the ideal box-safety for any college program on any level.