2023 DL Who Don’t Get Enough Credit
As they approach their senior year, players within the 2023 class are getting closer to the reality of their last high school football season. While some prospects have had their eyes set on this moment due to the high amount…
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Continue ReadingAs they approach their senior year, players within the 2023 class are getting closer to the reality of their last high school football season. While some prospects have had their eyes set on this moment due to the high amount of recruitment they may have received since their earlier years, other players are running out of time to get their names out there to as many college coaches as they can. With this being said, there is plenty of unfound, and underrated talent all across the state of North Carolina that has not seen the credit that is deserved. Below, we have taken some time to specifically recognize a few of the DL that we believe are under the radar, and who deserved a bit more attention than they have seen so far.
AJ Mebane- Southeast Durham
Out of this entire list, Mebane is one of the most physically developed players in terms of his frame, length, and size. Mebans utilizes this to his full advantage as he is able to get off of blocks with ease, as well as use his hands to position himself well to make tackles, and rip ball carriers to the ground. We like his ability to move laterally, and vertically, just the same, as his ability to roll his hips off of the ball and use pass-rush moves to get to the ball carrier. We also fully expect him to receive more attention moving forward, especially as his sack count continues to grow next season. Mebane is not only one of the more underrated players in his position group, but one of the most underrated players in the state.
Nick Martin- East Forsyth
Even though Martin may be one of the more developmental players on their list, he does a great job of using his leverage, and pass rush moves to position himself to make tackles, and sacks in the backfield. In addition to this, we like the way that he rips off of blocks, and makes tackles at the line of scrimmage and in pursuit. These plays are all about hustle, and his willingness to stick his nose into the pile. Not only does he have that hustle about him, but he plays with great physicality, which stands out a ton to us. While he has plenty to work on in terms of mechanics, we do feel that he is good enough to make it at a smaller college if given a chance. Look for this season to be a huge developmental year for him, and to determine where he goes moving forward.
Tyler Thompson Tyler Thompson 6'6" | 200 lbs | DL Panther Creek | 2023 State NC – Panther Creek
When watching the tape on Tyler, it should be no surprise that he is one of the more talented players on this list. As a result of this, he has received plenty of offers from prospective colleges. There are plenty of reasons behind this, including his physical skill set to get off of the ball and make tackles, as well as the way that he moves fluidly in and out of his breaks and when he changes direction. Tyler also does a great job of beating double and triple teams, and he proves that his strength, including in his hands and arms, are enough for him to be a great prospect at the next level. He not only bends very well, but he is relentless in his pursuit to make tackles along the sideline, and in the backfield. Look for him to have a great year next season, and for his future to continue to grow even brighter over time.
Donovan Dozier- Cardinal Gibbons
Not only does Dozier play for one of the more notable programs in the state, but he also happens to be one of the leading defensive players on this team. This includes his performance with sacks, and tackles. This should come as no surprise due to the way that he gets off the ball, and the way that he hustles to the football, no matter where it is on the field. He also makes tackles with ease, and he rolls his hips well upon contact. In addition to this, we love the way that Dozier uses pass-rush moves, including his spin moves, and a bull rush that allows him to pressure the passer, and make sacks. Clearly, he is still developing, but he already plays with a high level of potential, and ability to make game changing plays. Moving forward, we would like to see him improve in the way that he uses his leverage, and the way that he may lean, and move stiffly at times. If he can continue to improve in these areas, we have no doubt that he will receive more attention next season.