Defensive Sleepers from the Class of ’23

<p style="text-align: left;">Continuing our coverage of the Sleepers series as we are another day closer to kickoff. We’re staying in the Class of ’23 in this one, but this time we’re moving to the defensive side of the ball. These are five defenders that showed promise as sophomores and are looking to be impact players as juniors.</p> <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="169610" first="Remy" last="Stull"]</strong> – Hays, 6’0”, 180, DB It’s becoming apparent that Hays is a program that continues to develop freak athletes. Some of which are being heavily recruited by <em>Power Five</em> programs. Stull is another prospect on their roaster that is shaping into this mold. He’s quietly one of the Indians’ best athletes, and fans will see that soon enough. Stull’s ’21 season is looking promising after being named a <em>Top Performer</em> while at the <em>Sharp Top Prospect Combine</em> earlier this summer. The gridiron isn’t the only place where Stull shows out; he is also a standout basketball player for the Indians. <strong>Eli Oliver</strong> – Wabaunsee, 6’1”, 165, DB Oliver is another talented two-sport athlete that deserves more recognition heading into this season. He had a strong year as a sophomore racking up 45 total tackles with two interceptions and nine pass breakups. His play during the 2020 season earned him a <em>2^nd Team All-League </em>selection. Going into year two as a starter, the Chargers can rely more on Oliver to make plays and to expand his role in the secondary. There’s a chance he could see more work at receiver as well. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="87837" first="JC" last="Cummings"]</strong> – Hayden, 5’10”, 190, LB Hayden boasted a stout defensive unit last season, surrendering only 12 points per game. They graduated some key pieces from that group, but they’ll be in good hands with this up-and-coming linebacker returning. Cummings looked more experienced than the average sophomore on varsity during the 2020 season. He’s a high energy player that can contribute on special teams, and he has the versatility to move around on defense. Expect to see big things from him this fall. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="35670" first="Axavier" last="Vink"] </strong>– Ottawa, 6’0”, 220, LB The 2020 season was one to forget for the Cyclones. However, there should be some optimism around the team with defensive prospects like Vink stepping up for them this year. During his sophomore campaign the young backer showed he could play inside, and that he could come off the edge as a standup rusher. Vink also displayed good awareness; quickly finding his way to the football and coming up with a few fumble recoveries. Look for Vink to give the Cyclones’ defense a spark this year. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="126736" first="Adam" last="Parks"]</strong> – Blue Valley North, 6’3”, 220, DL/LB Parks is a rising defensive line prospect coming out of the Blue Valley area. As a sophomore he put together an <em>All-League Honorable Mention</em> year. He isn’t the most explosive edge rusher, but he has a knack for getting to the ball. His rangy frame gives him an advantage at fighting off blocks and wrapping up ball carriers in the backfield. The Mustangs also like to bump Parks to outside linebacker at times. Don’t be surprised to also see him get some opportunities to shine at tight end this year.