Emerging Defensive Linemen in the 2022 Class

Seven defensive linemen are ranked in the top fifty overall players in the class of 2022, but there are other seniors worth mentioning. Here are a five that are making a name for themselves going into fall camp. [player_tooltip player_id="119104" first="David" last="Robinson"]     6’1” 305     Akron St. Vincent St. Mary Robinson is a natural at the nose guard position. He can line up as a 2 or 3 technique but is best when shading an offensive center where he can use his leverage and strength to overpower the opponent. Robinson does a superb job of holding the point of attack then work the edges of the offensive blocker. He also has an excellent swim technique which he uses to make penetration into the offensive backfield. [player_tooltip player_id="129172" first="Dylan" last="Garber"]     6’3” 275     Olentangy Liberty Dylan comes off the ball with a low flat back, getting under the pads of the offensive lineman, often driving the blocker into the backfield, disrupting the offensive scheme. Garber is a quick reactor displaying the ability to flatten along the line of scrimmage to make the play. He has a toolbox of techniques including the spin and the push-pull to shed blockers. [player_tooltip player_id="139579" first="Eddie" last="Kiernan"]     6’1” 235     Warren JFK What Kiernan lacks in size is made up for by his motor that never quits as well as his football instincts. He is quick off the edge as a pass rusher and can flip his hips and changer direction to react to the play. Kiernan also has an excellent inside move to evade the block, then square up to make a hit on the ball carrier. His lateral movement and overall effort is impressive. [player_tooltip player_id="125623" first="Evan" last="Massey"]     6’3” 230     Cincinnati Sycamore Massey has active hands and can keep blockers off his frame with his ability to gain inside position. He shows upper body strength in being able to lock the offensive opponent out with one arm as he reads the play. Massey gives extra effort in running plays down from behind. He is versatile enough to play either defensive or defensive tackle. [player_tooltip player_id="140023" first="Hunter" last="Harrison"]     6’2" 265     Hamilton Badin Like Robinson, Harrison is made for the middle guard position where he can use his leverage to defeat centers and offensive guards. He is quick off the ball, plays low, and has excellent leg drive. Harrison can hold his own against a double team block then disengage and react to the play. He can play either a 0 or a 1 technique as good as any middle guard.