2022 Stock Risers: May Update

While there are multiple players in the most recent update who have seen their rankings change, we especially wanted to take some time to recognize a few of the prospects who saw a jump in their rankings. Improvements in players rankings have been determined due to further evaluation, fluctuation of player success and failure at camps, as well as player comparison among the lists. Below, you may notice a few of the players that stood out more than others. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="33894" first="Elijah" last="Pritchett"]- </strong><em>OL (Carver)</em> Pritchett, who was ranked 23rd in our previous rankings, saw his stock surge this time around due to his overall ability to play the OT position, and the fact that his offers have only continued to pile. This is a direct reflection of his talent, especially due to the fact that a large amount of his offers are from high profile Power 5 schools. On tape, not only does Pritchett finish blocks through to the ground, but he is a dominating force due to his size, length, and frame. He does a good job of moving his feet, remaining in a strong stance, and absorbing impact when needed. One thing that is impressive about Pritchett is the way that he gets off of the ball, engages defenders, and stays at a good base at all times. Due to this, he does well in pass protection, but is also effective when blocking for ball carriers, as he is able to get off of the ball smoothly, with a clean roll of his hips. <strong>CJ Washington- <em>DL / LB </em></strong><em> (Cedartown)</em> Washington’s stock jumped 10 spots in this rankings update due to his production in which he has put forth this offseason. Not only did he have success at camps, but he has also continued to solidify his spot with his athletic ability, and has proven why worth his commitment to UGA. Off of the ball, he is an absolutely dominant force, as he flies around the football, and is able to move around athletically, and fluidly. He has good bend to his movement, and his explosive ability allows him to not only get to the backfield well, but to be able to blow plays up before they even begin. With this, his length, and frame play a big part in his success, as he is able to make big time tackles in pursuit, and in space if need be. Washington also does a good job of turning the corner, and is arguably one of the most consistent defensive prospects in his class. On contact, Washington finishes tackles to the ground, and rarely leaves any room for ball carriers to escape. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="95145" first="Jake" last="Johnson"]-</strong> <em>TE/ WR (Oconee) </em> Not only did Johnson commit to the LSU Tigers back in April, but he has continued to show through his measurables, and tape that he is worth the jump up to the 17th spot. While this may only be a few slots difference, he has earned this, especially in comparison to those who play his position throughout the state of Georgia. Johnson, who is a better route runner than many give him credit for, is consistent in his production, and was a safety blanket for his QB last season. He catches the ball cleanly with his hands, and does a good job of watching it through with his eyes. Along with this, Johnson also has fluid movement skills, the ability to high point the football, and his underrated speed allows him to finish strong, and even put points on the board at times as well. With how the game is developing, and how Johnson’s frame appears as it can potentially develop, it should come as no shocker the fact that he is ranked this high. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="95444" first="Isaiah" last="Bond"]- </strong><em>WR (Buford) </em> 2021 has been a productive year for Bond so far, as he has received more attention, offers, and recognition for his talent and ability to play the WR position. Last rankings, we had him ranked in the 70’s, and this time around, he sees himself making a jump up to the 30’s. This comes as no surprise once film was further evaluated. Bond is not only an explosive play maker, but his ability to stack defenders in his route running seems almost as if it comes easy to him. Not only does he gain good separation with his routes, but he shows that he can make various kinds of catches, from different angles. This includes go routes, and intermediate routes. Bond will also win in contested situations, but most of the time, he will beat defenders with his feet, and short area quickness, making it to where his QB does not even have to worry about this. With this, he also has a great twitch, and the ability to change direction almost instantaneously.