Class of 2024: Defensive Players on the Rise

When a team is strong defensively, it does nothing but help the offense. Whether in a wide nine set, or a basic 4-3, being strong at all levels is so important. Think about it: if you have a defense that keeps getting three-and-outs, that gives your offense that many more chances to be on the field and score points. There are a lot of players who start out on offense, only to then find their voice on defense. Whether you start on the offensive line only to move to the defensive line, or you are a wide receiver who then turns to cornerback, the defensive players pride themselves on breaking down offenses. Here we will take a look at some defensive players who are going to make some noise this 2022 season. <strong>George Leroy #42 c/o ’24</strong> <strong>OLB/DE </strong> <strong>Siloam Springs High School</strong> George is a fierce competitor, and flies around making plays at a consistent rate. His 5’10" 185lb frame allows him to get to the ball quickly, and his 4.8 second 40-yard dash gives him the ability to chase down the ball carrier. Leroy is a smooth tackler, and with a 26" vertical he is dangerous in defending the passing game. Eventually with his height, he might be better served at safety. But wherever he is put, Leroy will be a definite menace to all offenses in the coming season. <strong>Brandon Laughter #44 c/o ’24</strong> <strong>MLB</strong> <strong>Springdale High School</strong> Brandon Laughter is mean. He plays with a fire that you love to see in defensive players. Laughter has great size, speed, and he has an ability to read plays that not all players possess. With his 6’0 200lb frame, Brandon is sure to use his power to get to the opposing offense and make a play. One thing that stood out to me while watching his film: Laughter is not shy of the big hits. He will be a player that opposing teams will surely gameplan for in the 2022 season. <strong>Derrick Murdock #15 c/o ’24</strong> <strong>OLB</strong> <strong>Little Rock Southwest High School</strong> The first thing that stood out while watching Derrick Murdock’s tape was his length. He uses his wingspan to his advantage, making some very difficult tackles look easy. Murdock has one heck of a first step, and not to mention great awareness. Derrick is a dude on that field, flying around making plays and being a game wrecker to opposing offenses. On top of all of that, he is tenacious. Murdock has a motor that never quits until he hears that whistle, which is why he will be one to watch in the 2022 season. <strong>Jonathan Goins #5 c/o ’24</strong> <strong>MLB/OLB</strong> <strong>Sylvan Hills High School</strong> Jonathan Goins is going to be a player to keep an eye on this 2022 season. Goins is coming off of a very successful season where he compiled 60 tackles (6 per game), 41 solo tackles (4.1 per game), 11 tackles for a loss, 2 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, and one interception. That is one heck of a season to build off of. Goins flies around like his hair is on fire, and he has great anticipation as the play is in progress. Jonathan’s 6’2" 205lb frame allows him to use his power and quickness to make big plays. &nbsp; &nbsp;