Mike’s Takes: Video Evaluations

The talent in Florida, particularly South Florida, is never-ending. Of the 259 players selected in the 2021 NFL Draft, 37 were from the Sunshine State. Broward County had a dozen alone. If you put Broward as a state, it would be sixth in the country! That is truly amazing and a testament to the football talent we have here. With that being said, I would like to give my take on some prospects in the area based on video evaluations I have watched. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="50295" first="D’Mon" last="Brinson"]</strong> - Dillard Brinson’s measurables (5’11/175) are solid for a cornerback prospect that will often times be out on his own island. He does a good job of turning his head around and locating the football in the air. This will often lead to an interception or pass breakup. He appears to have no issue sticking his head into an opponents chest and making a tackle against the pass or run. I liked Brinson’s awareness and closing speed in these situations. He is verbally committed to <strong>UConn</strong>. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="108633" first="Ryan" last="Turner"]</strong> - <em>Chaminade-Madonna</em> The <strong>Ohio State</strong> commit is physical cornerback in man-to-man coverage. At 6-foot and 180 pounds, wide receivers have a tough time getting off the line against him. Turner will strike you with force if you’re lucky enough to catch the football. This often leads to the ball being dropped. Moreover, his closing speed to make a physical hit in open space is impressive. The fact he also has strong coverage skills makes him a great defender. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="50012" first="Francois" last="Nolton"]</strong> - <em>Miami Edison</em> [player_tooltip player_id="50012" first="Francois" last="Nolton"] is a strong side defensive end for the Red Raiders. The 6-foot-4, 230-pound Nolton bulked up over the course of the year while maintaining his speed as an edge rusher. His combination of length and subsequent quickness off the line is a nightmare for tackles. I would say he’s very fluid as a pass rusher. As I mentioned, his added muscle can be a problem in bull rush situations. Norton is committed to the <strong>Florida Gators</strong> and will participate in the All-American Bowl. <strong>David Conner</strong> - <em>Deerfield Beach</em> David Conner is a big prospect with a ton of upside. The 6-foot-6, 270-pound offensive tackle recently pledged to the Florida Gators (8/17). Before June, only the <strong>Kansas Jayhawks </strong>had offered him a scholarship. Why? Conner did move around before ending up at Deerfield Beach and played on both sides of the ball. He appears to be cemented now on the offensive line. I guess its fair to assume he is still raw. Regardless, you see his potential on tape. Conner has ideal long arms and big hands to protect current and future quarterbacks. I think defenders will have a problem getting through him once he has his hands in place. Moreover, his toughness and finishing power as a pass-blocker is excellent. I would say his upside comes from better technique as a run blocker and maintaining proper leverage. Again, there is plenty of time for Conner to grow into a perennial SEC tackle. <strong>Omar Graham Jr.</strong> - <em>Stranahan</em> Graham Jr. is a 6-foot-1, 205-pound product out of Fort Lauderdale Stranahan. I really like his ability to tackle in open space or in traffic. He is fluid off the ball while also having the awareness to shed blockers and make a stop. Overall, Graham Jr.’s in-game management is impressive. He has plenty of talent to blitz off the edge and has good explosiveness. I would also say he’s a scrappy defender that will make plays in the box. Graham Jr. is a fundamental tackler. You will get the most out of him for 60 minutes. He is committed to <strong>Florida State</strong>. <em>For any South Florida Prep Redzone news or information...please contact Michael Costeines @Steins_23 on Instagram or follow him on Twitter @Mungertown_Mike23.</em>