Defensive Stock-Risers: 2023
As the season has now come and gone, it is time to take a look at members of the class of 2023 who saw their stock drastically improve during the past year. Let’s continue the rundown by looking at the…
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Continue ReadingAs the season has now come and gone, it is time to take a look at members of the class of 2023 who saw their stock drastically improve during the past year. Let’s continue the rundown by looking at the defense.
Eric Monte Thomas Jr | Starkville
Thomas has the motor that defensive coaches, especially those up front, love to see. Potential to grow into a premier EDGE defender and become a game wrecker as a pass rusher. Length isn’t elite, but Thomas controls has body extremely well and knows how to play with leverage. Wins against bigger offensive tackles with his burst at the snap and body control. Plays with a fire and attacks. Good overall strength throughout. Power 5 level talent that should see his recruitment really heat up in the coming months.
Lester Miller Lester Miller 6'0" | 160 lbs | WR Brandon | 2023 State MS | Brandon
Miller burst onto the scene in 2021 and was an important part of the Bulldogs run to the state title game. Production on both sides of the ball as a WR and DB. Believe he best projects as DB. Plays with good length and fluidity throughout. Does not have a ton of tape and reps at DB, but can easily see how he would be an asset there. Athletic build, good speed and agile. The upcoming camp season should be a great opportunity to showcase potential.
Jacquavyian Carter Jacquavyian Carter 6'0" | 215 lbs | LB Clinton | 2023 State MS | Clinton
Carter continues to rise up rankings boards at the OLB position. A bit undersized but that is easily overshadowed by his intensity and production. Understands the position and seems to always be where he needs to be. Produces in both run and pass defense. Good vision at the position combines well with the technical style he showcases. Not the most athletic guy on the field but gets the job done with smarts and vision. The type of LB that will make you room better.
Montrell Chapman Montrell Chapman 6'2" | 190 lbs | LB South Panola | 2023 State MS | South Panola
Athleticism oozes out of Chapman and is ever obvious on tape. Chapman brings length to the table and is overly smooth with it. Always close to the ball and always in on the tackle against some of the best competition in the state. Eyes and feet are both good qualities. What will he become is a fascinating question but difficult projection. Shows plenty of ability as a LB currently but frame looks like he may possibly grow enough to become an EDGE defender. Defensive coaches will fall in love with Chapman. Wouldn’t surprise me if he isn’t a top 5 defensive prospect in the state before the cycle ends.