Defensive Sleepers from the Class of ‘22

Photo: Prep Redzone

Santino Bernal August 19, 2021 @ 09:00 AM

Last week we took a look at some seniors on offense that shouldn’t be slept on this season, and this week we’re switching gears to the defensive side of the ball. There’s some notable defenders atop this recruiting class such as Crawford, Dean, Marshall, and Meyers. But there is also quality talent deeper in the rankings that shouldn’t be overlooked. These are five defenders sure to wake the sleepers up this season. [player_tooltip player_id="111773" first="Anthony" last="Johnson"] - Maize South, 5’10”, 165, DB It could be a big senior year for Johnson, as he projects to be the Mavericks’ No. 1 corner this season. During Johnson’s junior year he displayed good awareness in zone coverage, and had a knack for quickly identifying screen plays. His recruitment has been slow so far, but he did receive an invitation to compete at a showcase hosted by Langston University last month. The young man is motivated to earn some offers this year, and could potentially make the All-League team. [player_tooltip player_id="91416" first="Joel" last="Deters"] - Mission Valley, 5’9”, 150, DB The leading interception man in Class 2A last season returns as one of the top ball hawks in the state. It seemed like Deters was all over the field during his junior year, as he went on to haul in nine interceptions. This earned him an All-State Honorable Mention nod and an All-League selection. Deters hasn’t received much recognition heading into his senior campaign, but he should once again be one of the top cover safeties in the state. [player_tooltip player_id="89512" first="Alexavier" last="King"] - Olathe North, 6’0”, 195, ATH The Eagles’ defense was stellar last season, surrendering only 13 points per game. They should have one of the top defensive units in the state once again with playmakers like King returning for them. He’s been raising his stock during the offseason and has picked up offers from William Jewell and Benedictine College, and has received interest from a few other programs as well. King may not have been an All-League selection in 2020, but the ’21 season should have a different result. [player_tooltip player_id="159181" first="Dadrien" last="Montgomery"] - Topeka, 6’0”, 210, LB Montgomery is a linebacking prospect flying under the radar for now, but recruiters will know his name by the end of this season. His athleticism jumps out on film, as he’s capable of playing sideline-to-sideline. In addition to this, he does the little things right. Montgomery does a great job of consistently breaking down to square up with ball carriers, shows good gap control, and doesn’t over pursue. Dadrien will not only have his skills on full display this season, but he will also have the opportunity to perform in the Blue-Grey All-American Bowl later this year. [player_tooltip player_id="113302" first="John" last="Wrinn"] - Kapaun Mt. Carmel, 6’3”, 235, DL With standout defensive lineman [player_tooltip player_id="35450" first="George" last="Traglia"] graduating this past school year, the Crusaders will look for Wrinn to take his game to another level as a senior. Wrinn is a physical prospect that can play as both a 3 and 5 Tech. He’s a mismatch against interior offensive linemen because of his quick first step. Coming off the edge is where Wrinn displays his athleticism and length. Look for the Crusaders to move Wrinn around to create favorable matchups this season.