FRIDAY FOCUS: The Panhandle Is Loaded Again

We say it over and over again – and it never resonates with those who recruit the state of Florida, but the Panhandle is stacked with talent. Every year, there are dozens of prospects that get overlooked in this region of the state – when it should be the opposite. <img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-93316" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/redzone/uploads/2021/01/UndertheRadar-Logo-300x188.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="188" />If you live anywhere from the Florida-Alabama line to Fort Walton Beach, Panama City and many of the smaller communities, heading toward Tallahassee, you already know how many quality football players annually are taught in this area that has long produced football prospects. Because the Panhandle is located so close to many states, you can easily hit Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Georgia all within three to four hours. It’s a major contrast to south Florida – where it takes you seven hours just to get out of the state. If you have followed us over the past seven months, it goes without saying that we see enough prospects from Key West to Jacksonville and everywhere in between to give you a valid assessment. We will always bring football players that are difference makers right now – while others are working toward that status. Today, we once again make a stop in the Panhandle and visit the Pensacola area to bring you some impressive underclassmen. <strong>2022 – Eric Burch, DE, Pensacola Escambia. </strong>During a season where the Gators failed to make it make to the 6A state title game, they discovered this impressive talent, who became a true play-maker for this program. As a run stopper or pass rusher, here is a talented young man that never gave up on any play. He will certainly be a huge catalyst for a young team in 2021. <strong>TAPE: </strong><a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/11628852/Eric-Burch">https://www.hudl.com/profile/11628852/Eric-Burch</a> <strong>2023 - Raymond Cottrell, WR, Milton. </strong>While he’s just a sophomore – and there are still two years left to impress – here is one of Florida’s top young prospects. A mega-recruit that continued to play beyond his years. Cottrell finished with 31 catches for 363 yards and five touchdowns in seven games played. His offer sheet includes Georgia, Florida State and Auburn to name a few. <strong>TAPE:</strong> <a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/10187210/Raymond-Cottrell">https://www.hudl.com/profile/10187210/Raymond-Cottrell</a> <strong> </strong><strong>2022 – Waymond Jordan, RB, Pensacola Catholic. </strong>Yet another big-time football talent that this program once again produced this past season. An outstanding runner, who has size, outstanding vision and a running style that combines power and speed. When he runs out of the Wing Offense, you need to watch out for him on every play – because he does so much and can run the ball from a number of different places on the field. His durability seals the deal when watching him. He is willing to carry the ball as much as possible to help his team win. <strong>TAPE: </strong><a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/11373810/Waymond-Jordan-Jr">https://www.hudl.com/profile/11373810/Waymond-Jordan-Jr</a> <strong> </strong><strong>2022 - Deontrez McLamb, LB, Pensacola Pine Forest. </strong>In posting 73 tackles, 6 for loss and a sack this past season, here is a gifted two-way football player who is already on plenty of watch lists for the upcoming season. He is strong, athletic and has a passion to play this game. As he matures, you will see that he will be harder to block – and at the same time – be around the ball more. Remember, he was just a junior this season – and now as the off-season is under way – he will certainly blow up for those who watch games and NOT just film. <strong>TAPE:</strong> <a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/11948618/Deontrez-McLamb">https://www.hudl.com/profile/11948618/Deontrez-McLamb</a> <strong> </strong><strong>2023 - Ammiel Steele, QB, Pensacola Washington. </strong>Just another amazing talent that very few people watched this past season, but that will all change now. This is tremendous football player who makes plays with his arm and legs. A gifted prospect who is very athletic and often lets his instincts be the guide for his success. There are many things that he still needs to learn about the position, but that’s what the off-season is for. <strong>TAPE:</strong><a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/12983180/Ammiel-Steele"> https://www.hudl.com/profile/12983180/Ammiel-Steele</a> <strong> </strong><strong>Y<em>ou Can Contact Larry Blustein with prospect or team information at: Foridakids1@aol.com. We are also on </em></strong><strong><em>Social Media on @PrepRedzonefl.</em></strong>