Film Session: Small School 2021 DL Prospects
As most Prep Redzone subscribers already know by now, we released our updated version of our 2021 class rankings not too long ago. In these rankings, not only did we list plenty of prospects who have seen changes in their…
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Continue ReadingAs most Prep Redzone subscribers already know by now, we released our updated version of our 2021 class rankings not too long ago. In these rankings, not only did we list plenty of prospects who have seen changes in their rankings, but there were also plenty of players who made the list for the first time. While this list was very deep in itself, we also wanted to take some time to shed light on a few DL prospects who did not make the list, who we still feel are talented enough to make the roster for smaller programs. Below, you can check out a few of our favorite DL prospects in GA who are not only underrated, but could certainly make a difference for a smaller program if given a chance.
Amari Little- Grady
Grady, who has the physique to play DL at the next level, proved to be a good role player at the high school level, while also finding ways to make good plays behind the line of scrimmage. Often times, this resulted in tackles for a loss, or stops that bought enough time for gang tackles. While he can be seen to be a bit of a project due to his stiff movement at times, if he goes to a smaller program, he will undoubtedly use his length, strength, and tackling ability to continue playing football high level of production if given a chance. With this, he also has a bit of a burst, and speed to him, which will be attractive to any college coach wanting to take a peek at his ability. He can get around the edge well, and use his arms well to extend past defenders, allowing him to gain separation and make plays.
Santanna Willis- Warner Robins
When watching tape on Willis it is evident that his strong, and wide lower body not only helps him to explode off of the ball, and often times into the backfield for stops, but it helps him to push through the offensive line, to clog up run efforts, and fill gaps. Not only does he have a good pop upon contact, but he also shows that he can use a good swim move, and use his hands and arms effectively to gain the necessary separation to make tackles, and get past linemen. Along with this, he also shows a bit of mobility and athleticism, as he is able to move sideline to sideline, and make tackles in pursuit, and wrap up effectively on ball carriers. Willis also does a good job of ripping off of blocks, which can be seen to be a huge factor in his success. If a smaller program were to give him a chance late, we think it would be worth it.
Beau Shugarts- Greenbrier
While most high school football followers may not know of Shugarts, we are familiar with the success he had on both sides of the ball for Greenbrier. Specifically, while playing on the DL, he proved to have some success terrorizing offensive linemen, as he continuously put up quality film of his ability to fire off of the edge. With this, Shugarts absolutely bullied linemen, as he was able to use his hands, and quick feet to maneuver his way around people, and to make tackles. While we also feel that he is certainly a bit stiff and bulky when moving laterally, we like his ability to move vertically, and to be able to make stops. If given a chance to play at the next level, we see him being a key contributor at the D3 level of play.
Brett Stefan- Woodstock
Stefan, another long, and powerful DE put up a ton of big plays for his defense in his senior year. Not only does he have the athleticism to fly around and make stops, but he has the reactionary skills to make plays when defending the pass as well. This was proved by his ability to swat at passes. Along with this, Stefan also showed that he is not afraid of contact, and has no problem laying the boom on ball carriers. He rolls his hips when he makes contact, and finishes through to the ground. Stefan’s ability to move laterally is another factor that helps him a great deal, especially in pursuit, and he also shows that he can use his hands well in multiple scenarios. We expect him to be able to play for a D2 program if given the chance, and feel that he would be a key play maker for his team if this does manage to happen.