Class of ‘24 Rankings Update: May Additions

This wave of May additions saw over 25 newcomers enter the <i>Class of ’24 Player Rankings</i>, with 20 of them landing inside the Top 100. Many of the prospects that made their debuts in this update were featured during the <i>Film Session</i> series back in March and April. But these six newcomers have yet to be highlighted, and deserve a proper introduction. [player_tooltip player_id="335818" first="Kaedin" last="Massey"] – Lyndon, 6’8”, 250, ATH Massey is a prospect with major value and high upside. The standout two-way player enters the rankings at No. 61 and is the 12th ranked athlete in the class. Massey falls under the athlete category because of his potential at offensive tackle, defensive end, and tight end. While he’s not the most explosive player, Massey can win battles in the trenches with his long reach and nimble feet. Although he didn’t line up at tight end this past season; he’d be an instant mismatch because of his size, and his background on the hardwood would make the transition a little easier. Massey will only continue to grow as a player, and could really come into his own as a junior. [player_tooltip player_id="288658" first="Cole" last="Chalashtari"] – Maize, 6’4”, 270, OL The Maize Eagles are widely known throughout the state for their offensive weapons, but their hogs up front deserve some recognition too. Chalashtari was one that filled in well during his first varsity season. As a sophmore he displayed an ability to get upfield quickly on pulling plays, he showed he can hold his own in pass protection, and he has the strength to rack up some pancakes. He also proved to be a reliable option at center when needed. Chalashtari could play a factor in the Eagles making it back to the state title game this season. His versatile play brings him into the rankings at No. 72 and he is the 12th ranked offensive lineman in the class. [player_tooltip player_id="335817" first="Christian" last="Gonzales"] – Shawnee Heights, 6’1”, 270, DL Gonzales put together a strong sophomore campaign at defensive tackle. The 9th ranked defensive lineman posted 56 total tackles, six tackles for loss, three sacks, and one forced fumble in 2021. His <i>All-UKC Honorable Mention </i>year brings him into the Top 100 at No. 78 in the class. He’s a 3-tech with good athleticism, which allowed him to put pressure on quarterbacks throughout the ’21 season. Gonzales has a few pass rushing moves at his disposal, and does a great job of having active hands. He’ll be a defensive lineman the Thunderbirds will look to rely on this season, as they graduate a few All-League players up front. [player_tooltip player_id="335900" first="DJ" last="Messerly"] – Chapman, 6’1”, 225, DL Messerly makes his debut in the rankings as the 13th ranked defensive lineman in the class and the 103rd ranked player overall. He came up big for the Fighting Irish multiple times this past season, and he was rewarded with a <i>1st Team All-NCK League</i> selection. Messerly would finish the ’21 campaign with 33 total tackles, 11 tackles for loss, two sacks and two force fumbles. He doesn’t showcase many moves to get into the backfield, but he does shoot gaps quickly and catches opposing linemen off-balance with a fierce bull rush. He has the potential to be a force off the edge as he continues to develop. [player_tooltip player_id="335815" first="Brady" last="Whitman"] – Blue Valley North, 6’3”, 215, TE Whitman cracks the rankings just outside the Top 100 at No. 105, and he is the first tight end in the Class of ’24 to be ranked. As of now he’s an unknown prospect, but he has the size and athleticism to be a breakout player for the Mustangs this season. He’s already shown glimpses of his potential while competing with <i><a href="https://twitter.com/stffakc?s=21&amp;t=JNClkLKEypO-3mQ0a2dfpw">StretchTheFieldFA</a> </i>during the spring 7-on-7 circuit. Whitman possesses a wide catch radius, strong hands, and his skill set fits the mold of Blue Valley North’s pass heavy scheme. There’s not much film on him right now, but he could surprise folks during his junior year. [player_tooltip player_id="340492" first="Drake" last="McPherson"] – Campus, 6’3”, 170, QB McPherson was one of the final additions during this update, as he adds to a talented class of quarterbacks. He’s making his debut at No. 117 and is the 13th ranked signal caller in the class. McPherson didn’t see much varsity action as a sophomore, but he did put together some impressive film at the junior varsity level. He showcased his athleticism in Campus’ flexbone offense, and displayed excellent vision as a runner. He’ll have the opportunity to further showcase his skills while competing at the <i><a href="https://twitter.com/mcpherson_drake/status/1525670062232936450?s=21&amp;t=ZTsIjwsvkJ6KsNJedAmgJQ">Sharp Performance Top Prospect Combine</a> </i>this summer. Don’t be surprised if McPherson is starting under center this fall.