Welcome to the Ranking Party! 2023 DBs to KNOW!

Playing varsity football is an honor and not for the timid. Playing as a freshman or sophomore is high-level and deserves praise. But standing out and doing enough to get ranked by the Prep Redzone Scouts is taking your game to a different level. Here are some 2023 defensive backs who have a very bright future and are now ranked in Missouri. (For a reference point, only SIX defensive backs from the class of 2023 were on the Missouri Prep Redzone watch list entering 2020. DeSmet Jesuit’s [player_tooltip player_id="37662" first="Christian" last="Gray"] was top-ranked and No. 8 overall). [player_tooltip player_id="99469" first="Marvin" last="Burks Jr"], Cardinal Ritter (No. 2 DB and No. 8 overall) A lengthy, well-put-together player, Burks is explosive out of his backpedal to close with a burst. Burks has size and speed but what will continue to get him offers is his ability and want to be a dominant tackler. One of the best players in the state and should challenge Gray for the top spot for the next two seasons. [player_tooltip player_id="101688" first="Austin" last="Wilkerson"], Lamar (No. 3 DB and No. 22 overall) Wilkerson was a star as a sophomore on a state championship team. The ball hawk always seemed to make the major interception or cause a turnover when his team needed a play. Wilkerson has natural football feel, is instinctive, and has exceptional hands. [player_tooltip player_id="101696" first="Caleb" last="Donnell"], Smithville (No. 4 DB and No. 37 overall) Donnell was an active contributor to the Smithville program as a sophomore on offense and defense. Donnell has good spatial awareness, quick feet, and above-average football instincts. With improved strength and speed, Donnell has a chance to be a high-end recruit and still has multiple years to grow. [player_tooltip player_id="103366" first="Konner" last="Vaughn"], Osage (No. 6 DB and No. 59 overall) Vaughn lines up as safety and uses his length and speed to show off his impressive range. A very sure leg tackler, the sophomore comes to balance well in space, puts his head on the football, and wraps up with force to get the ball carrier to the ground. Vaughn has room to add bulk and could project to hybrid LB at the next level.