Program Profiles: Juniors to Watch at Wichita Heights

Most folks across the state more than likely know about standout junior running back, [player_tooltip player_id="35641" first="John" last="Randle"] of Wichita Heights. However, they may not know that there are quite a few talented players from the Falcons’ junior class. Randle wasn’t the only player from this class that picked up All-City League honors in 2020, as there were four other Falcons that earned Honorable Mention selections. This group has a ton of potential and should help the Falcons be a competitive program in the 5A Division over the next few years. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="170133" first="DJ" last="Dingle"]</strong>, 6’0”, 160, QB Dingle heads into year two of being the lead signal caller for the Falcons. The young quarterback didn’t have many opportunities to showcase his arm due to Wichita Heights’ potent rushing attack. But he did show glimpses of being a dangerous dual threat. Dingle accounted for 643 yards of total offense and eight total touchdowns this past fall. The All-League Honorable Mention quarterback should be poised for a big junior campaign. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="170134" first="Hayden" last="Powell"]</strong>, 6’6”, 300, OL Junior year could be a pivotal season for Powell’s recruitment. Several Power 5 programs will be in attendance to scout Randle, and it could be a chance for the enormous prospect to get noticed. His frame fits the mold of a Division I offensive lineman, and his skillset could potentially reach that level. Powell moves well for his size, and he is a beast in the run game. Heights rushed for over 2,300 yards as a team in 2020, and Powell will be an intricate piece in order for them to repeat that performance this fall. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="170139" first="Isaiah" last="Yehudah"]</strong>, 5’11”, 180, LB Yehudah will be the top tackler returning for the Falcons this season. As a sophomore, he was third on the team in total tackles with 49. He also had two interceptions with one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. Yehudah excels at quickly shedding blocks and getting to the ball carrier, and he showcases good awareness in coverage. He’ll look to be selected as a 1^st Team backer as a junior. <strong>Jaydon Okoro</strong>, 5’8”, 155, DB Okoro played well in his limited snaps during his first season at the varsity level. He racked up 24 total tackles with one interception and two pass breakups. This earned him an All-League Honorable Mention nod. He has a similar frame to fellow defensive back, [player_tooltip player_id="89198" first="Jaeden" last="Hamilton"], and he also has some speed to his game. Okoro should see an increase in playing time as a junior and could have the opportunity to be used on offense as well. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="87668" first="Lafayette" last="Washington"]</strong>, 5’10”, 165, ATH Washington didn’t see much action at the varsity level, but he has the potential to be an exciting prospect these next two years. He impressed with the limited carries he had on varsity, averaging 4.4 yards a carry, and scoring two touchdowns. He’s yet another explosive player on this roaster that can make one cut and blow past defenders. The Falcons tend to utilize multiple running backs, so Washington should see more touches during his junior year. &nbsp;