2022 Rising Stars: Offensive Lineman in Houston Area
This list is comprised of the offensive lineman who are doing the dirty work in the trenches. Listed below are centers, guards, and tackles who have stood out on film and who seem to have a promising future in the…
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Continue ReadingThis list is comprised of the offensive lineman who are doing the dirty work in the trenches. Listed below are centers, guards, and tackles who have stood out on film and who seem to have a promising future in the game. These young men are expected to better their games this offseason and prepare for their last runs with their respective teams. All show good measurables, but their play on the field will be the determining factor for their futures.
Van Wells, Center – C.E. King
Wells possesses all of the tools needed to be a great lineman. Physicality off of snap, quickness and speed needed to get out on screens, and finishing plays through the whistle. Wells is very dominant on the interior line, controlling the opposition and dictating where he wants them to go. In the run game he is vicious. Pancakes are a natural thing in his game and he is a valuable piece to his offense. Wells shows tremendous strength, power, and athleticism. He is excellent on combo blocks and makes his way to the level to dominate. Wells leads the charge for the run game and makes a statement with each block. He currently holds offers from Nevada and UTSA but expect more to pour in for this talented player.
Nathanyal Ridgeway, Center – Alief Taylor
Ridgeway is another talented center in this class. He is a strong lineman who blocks with purpose. Ridgeway drives opponents to the ground when creating running lanes for his tail backs. Ridgeway plays with the mentality to put you on your back and usually succeeds at doing so. Ridgeway is a player who dominates and once he is engaged, its a problem for the defense. He is a big body who plays with grit and is key to the run games success. Expect Ridgeway to go into next season on a mission after playing only 6 games last season and be prepared to see improvements in his game.
Anfernee Crease, Tackle – Tomball Memorial
First thing that stands out about Crease is his ability to move for his size. Crease has very good measurables and him being able to maneuver at such a quick pace is a major positive for his game. He is extremely physical and gets the job done on the field. In the passing game, he is a brick wall who stands strong and gives his quarterback time to make his reads. In the running game, Crease is just nasty. He is a headhunter and looks to put defenders in the dirt. Very exciting lineman to watch who pulls with a purpose. Expect Crease to have a very productive offseason and to start next season on fire.
Duke Leonard, Tackle/Guard – Cypress Woods
Leonard is an agile, physical lineman who plays both tackle and guard. He has a good, long frame that should be able to add weight to in the future and he shows good athleticism. Leonard is quick off the ball and does an excellent job of beating defenders to spots. His quick first step leads to easy reach blocks and open running lanes for his backs. Leonard shows his strength on base blocks as well. He plays with a simple goal, to put defenders on their backs. Leonard shows great pad level off the snap and is an exceptional cut blocker. Leonard plays a valuable role in the Wildcat’s run game and will once again need to be a standout on the line. Expect his name gain traction going into next season.
Tyler Lee, Tackle – Tomball
Lee standouts on film due to his ability to move and his drive off of the ball. Lee shows great strength and uses his hips incredibly well in his blocking. He drives with force and just continues to push defenders out of the way. Lee plays through the whistle and shows that he has the potential to be a top lineman in the class. Lee is quick on pulls and gets out into open space in a snap. Once you are in his sights be prepared to go for a ride. Lee has tremendous skill and will be on many peoples’ radar for his senior season.