5 of the Biggest Sleepers from 2021 in the Houston Area
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In the Houston area, there is an immense amount of talent that’s not getting the attention their play has called for. In this article, we will look over a range of guys from various classifications and positions. WR Antonio Silva…
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Continue ReadingIn the Houston area, there is an immense amount of talent that’s not getting the attention their play has called for. In this article, we will look over a range of guys from various classifications and positions.
WR Antonio Silva | 6’1 190lbs | 2022 | Katy
Katy wide receiver, Antonio Silva had a productive and underrated 2021 campaign. Silva has great size, is strong on contact, and is a fluid route runner. With Katy’s rushing attack being so prevalent, Silva was asked to do a lot off the play-action game. From the slot, he would do a lot of block and releases displaying his strength and crafty route running. In his routes, he does a great job of pushing vertical and displaying quick breaks. Silva thrives on out-breaking routes where he can set up the DB by pushing vertical and using leverage against them to get open. On just 25 receptions, Silva posted 472 yards, 18.9 ypc, and six touchdowns in 2021. Silva has got D2 and offers and some D1 interest, but is still looking for a home for the next four years.
EDGE Matthew Lambert | 6’3 220lbs | 2022 | George Ranch
Amazing burst, power, finesse, and disruptive are traits you see from George Ranch’s edge defender Matthew Lambert. Coming off the ball he is the first one out the gate every time. On every play, you see a high motor and solid technique from the 6’3 edge rusher. Lambert has real deal 4.49 speed and he utilizes it on his get-off and pass rush. Although he likes to use his athleticism to win, he still has a powerful bullrush that pushes tackles into the quarterback. Tight end and running back blocks practically don’t exist for Lambert and he moves through those with ease. At 6’3 220lbs he has the frame to add on more weight at the level to help make him more of a menace for linemen. Lambert uses his tools very well to be a force to be dealt with not only in the passing game but in the run game. The senior posted five sacks, 11 TFL, and a FF in 2021. Lambert has some interest from FCS schools, but his recruiting is still open, and he has D1 talent and size.
RB Jahbari Kuykendall | 5’8 175lbs | 2023 | Westside
One of the most electric backs in the city who had 1,603 rushing yards, averaged over nine yards per carry, and put up 14 touchdowns on the ground, is somehow still a sleeper. Jahbari Kuykendall is one of the fastest backs not only in the district but in the city. He brings his track background to the football field and flashes with his speed. Aside from his athletic tools, Kuykendall is versatile and reads his blocks quickly and correctly. The junior back is shifty, light on his feet, and plays with a lot more power than one might expect from a 175lbs back. Westside depended on his ability as he accounted for over half of their total yards on offense. He’s a workhorse who may not have the most ideal size but makes up for it with an elite skill set and production. Kuykendall was first-team all-district, HISD’s district MVP, academic all-state, and currently holds 1 offer from Eastern Kentucky.
RB Rashaad Johnson Rashaad Johnson 5'9" | 210 lbs | RB North Shore | 2023 State TX | 5’9 220lbs | 2023 | North Shore
Power running is still alive and well at North Shore with Rashaad Johnson Rashaad Johnson 5'9" | 210 lbs | RB North Shore | 2023 State TX totting the rock. Sharing the workload this season and still posting 62 carries, 551 yards, and five touchdowns on the ground while averaging 8.8 yards per carry and still managed to claim second-team all-district. In the second and third level, Johnson is a lot of times just too much to bring down 1 on 1 for defenders. He plays with a low pad level and is ready to make forceful contact at any moment. With over 400 yards after contact, his power translates directly to his production. Working out of the shotgun he displayed good blocking ability and is powerful and efficient between the tackles. You can tell he plays full speed and his speed isn’t something to overlook with his 4.5 40 time. At 220lbs Johnson is bringing the punch and bringing it quickly. Next season Johnson will get more touches and will continue to raise his stock going into his senior season.
CB Thai Scott Thai Scott 6'2" | 160 lbs | ATH La Grange | 2024 State TX | 6’2 160lbs | 2024 | La Grange
As a sophomore Thai Scott Thai Scott 6'2" | 160 lbs | ATH La Grange | 2024 State TX made a name for himself quickly. With his elite length and height, Scott knows how to use it. In man, he’s very sticky and in position on the receiver’s hips. While in his back peddle he stays low and his hips are ready to move in any direction. In zone, he diagnoses concepts quickly and makes plays on the ball. Scott refuses to give up the deep ball and stays over top of his assignment. In the run game he’s a solid tackler, quickly provides his run fit, and isn’t afraid of contact or pulling linemen. Scott put it together and got himself an interception and a couple of pass breakups in the 2021 season. Just to add to his skill set, Scott also lines up at wideout where he’s used as a big-play deep threat and jump ball guy. Overall, Scott is physical, smart, and technically sound and currently holds no offers. With some more film and exposure under his belt, he will be a hot target for colleges in the future.