Names to know for 2023: Athletes
In this article:
As a rising high school junior exact position placement and projection is not always easy. It is easy, though, to see the overall ability these prospects carry. Let’s take a deeper dive into the film of three 2023 ATH’s and…
Access all of Prep Redzone
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingAs a rising high school junior exact position placement and projection is not always easy. It is easy, though, to see the overall ability these prospects carry. Let’s take a deeper dive into the film of three 2023 ATH’s and the bright futures they possess.
Isaac Smith Isaac Smith 6'2" | 180 lbs | ATH Itawamba Agricultural | 2023 State MS | Itawamba AHS
Before all is said and done Smith has a great chance to be one of the most dynamic athletes in state for the class of 2023. At 6″2, 175 lbs, and room to add muscle to the frame, the Fulton, MS native has a build to play skill positions on either side of the ball effectively. At this time the strong safety position feels like the most likely projection, but I would not be ready to rule out a slot receiver role on offense just yet. Above average route running ability with keen sense of body control. Smith reaches max speed with ease and has good initial quickness in and out of breaks. Elite field vision is a huge benefit to his game and gives him constant advantages. Next level mixture of athletic intangibles and football smarts that will make secondary coaches drool. Currently holds offers from Mississippi State and Ole Miss, with many more Power 5 offers coming in the future.
https://www.hudl.com/video/3/12294553/5faeb73115f5f00a8c4432ef
Matthew Nixon Matthew Nixon 6'3" | 185 lbs | ATH West Jones | 2023 State MS | West Jones
Stellar Sophomore season with nearly 800 all purpose yards and 6 TD’s to tag along with a state championship. Nixon possesses an athletic, shifty frame that is extremely tough to bring down with the football. Impressive twitch and burst off the ball as a WR, with above average route running ability considering his age. Doesn’t have “run off and leave you” type of speed but wins with technical abilities and elite change of direction skills. Nixon is brave over the middle of the field and doesn’t shy away from contact. Will be interesting to see what happens growth wise, as he already has next level arm length. As role within offense grows in the next year, offers will start to roll in. Big time potential here.
https://www.hudl.com/video/3/13155660/60137b94a681540dec7b3f29
Traylon Minor Traylon Minor 5'9" | 180 lbs | ATH Natchez | 2023 State MS | Natchez
You have to be careful when watching Minor play because he is truly bound to line up anywhere on the field at any given time. What is lacking in size is made up for in pure grit and toughness. Minor is the type of guy that cannot be considered down until you’re laying on top of him, he simply breaks tackles over and over again. The Natchez up and comer is best labeled as a do it all offensive threat, who loves to get the ball moving downhill with a physical mindset. Power emphasis more so than agile, yet can still make guys miss in open grass. Hard to project position wise at the time, but a definite playmaker nonetheless that will be a great fit in an RPO offense.
https://www.hudl.com/video/3/14136619/601d74ff688f180fb825629d