Unsigned Prospects: Pass Rushers Being Overlooked

As we inch closer to <em>National Signing Day</em>, we’re continuing to highlight seniors still available heading into the big day. In the first edition of <em>Unsigned Prospects </em>we took a look at a few signal callers flying under the radar. We’re switching gears in this second edition, as we’ll now be focusing on four defensive linemen that are being overlooked. This position group is arguably the best in our Class of ’22 rankings, as there are already 12 prospects that have announced their commitment. Even with 12 defensive linemen off the board, there is still plenty of talent available. These are four defensive linemen that recruiters need to reach out to. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="89494" first="Jack" last="Cecil"]</strong> – Blue Valley, 6’4”, 210 Starting off this piece is a prospect from Blue Valley that took his game to new heights during his senior year. Cecil increased all of his numbers across the board during his final high school season. The senior ended the ’21 campaign racking up 64 total tackles, 13 tackles for loss and seven sacks. His standout play earned him a <em>6A All-State Honorable Mention</em> nod and a <em>2^nd Team All-EKL</em> selection. Although recruiting buzz around him has been quiet, Cecil would be a valuable addition to any program. Cecil is one of the most athletic edge rushers in the class. The way he’s able to bend his body coming off the edge makes it difficult for offensive tackles to block him. He also has a long reach that can keep blockers at a distance and he has long strides to track down ball carriers in the backfield. A redshirt year could help him add size, but the young man has a lot of upside. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="35551" first="Danny" last="Saili"]</strong> – Topeka, 6’4”, 350 Saili is a defensive coordinator’s dream, and an offensive coordinator’s nightmare. The senior made an impact in his first season as a Topeka Trojan after transferring from Jefferson West. It’s safe to say his transition from Class 3A to Class 6A wasn’t too much of a challenge. He was recognized as a <em>1^st Team All-Centennial League</em> defensive tackle and he also earned a <em>6A All-State Honorable Mention</em> selection.  In addition to this, Saili was also selected to play in the <em>49^th Kansas Shrine Bowl </em>later this year. Recruiters absolutely need a player like Saili on their roaster. He has the frame of a <em>Power 5 </em>defensive tackle and the physicality to go along with it. Saili attacks the opposition with brute force every snap. Looks can be deceiving with him as well. He is very quick for his size and has fast hands. Whichever program lands Saili is getting a gem. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="207155" first="Blake" last="McCormick"]</strong> – Maize South, 6’4”, 225 McCormick has been a prospect quietly on the rise since his junior year. He killed it in the weight room leading up to the ’21 season, and his play significantly improved because of it. The senior finished the year piling up 76 total tackles with five forced fumbles and three batted passes. This would lead to a <em>5A All-State Honorable Mention</em> nod and a <em>1^st Team All-AVCTL DI </em>selection for his play at defensive end. His improvements made from his junior year to senior year should be an encouraging sign for recruiters. One of the biggest take aways from McCormick’s film is his speed off the line. There’s times he shoots off the ball so quick that offensive linemen can barely get a hand on him. His added size and strength also allows him to take on bigger blockers. If given a chance, McCormick could develop into a quality edge rusher at the next level. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="219695" first="Kolten" last="Lacrone"]</strong> – Chanute, 6’4”, 235 Wrapping up this second edition of <em>Unsigned Prospects </em>is arguably one of the top defensive ends from Class 4A. Lacrone’s tremendous play was a big reason why the Blue Comets surrendered less than 10 points per game this past season. He ended his senior campaign with eight tackles for loss and six sacks. The Chanute product’s impressive year did not go unnoticed, as he’d earn a <em>1^st Team 4A All-State</em> selection and he was named the <em>Southeast Kansas League Defensive Player of the Year</em>. He’ll also be a prospect competing in the <em>Kansas Shrine Bowl. </em> The best way to describe Lacrone’s game is physical and relentless. His strength allows him to fight through any block and sometimes a double team isn’t enough to slow him down. One way or another, he’ll find his way to the ball. Lacrone is also a heavy hitter once he gets a head full of steam. He has the potential to make an impact during his first year of college.