Feel The Rush! 2023 Louisiana Defensive Ends to Watch

The evolution of offensive gameplans that include more of an aerial passing attack has had the priority of finding players that can disrupt the quarterback is a need for every college team in the country. The ability to get consistent pressure on the outside allows the quarterback to rush through his progression and have the high probability of making a mental error during the offensive drive in a game. The defensive end position has grown into a role with multiple responsibilities at times in a defense like setting the edge against the run, bringing the pressure in pass rush with ether speed or power in the array of pass rush moves, and even sometimes dropping into coverage. Let’s take a look at a couple of 2023 defensive ends from Louisiana to keep an eye on: <strong>Jacavion Jacob</strong> 6-5 215 Westgate High School (New Iberia, LA.) He has a tall athletic frame which fits the mold of a hybrid outside linebacker/defensive end type which you are seeing more and more of in the recruiting cycles. Shows to have a quick first step off the line of scrimmage, which allows him to gain ground quickly and effectively in the opposing offensive backfield. He shows the flexibility to bend at the top of his rush and has the natural "lean" to close in space between him and the offensive tackle. [player_tooltip player_id="138387" first="TaDerius" last="Collins"] 6-5 245 Northwood High School (Shreveport, LA.) A physical versatile defensive end that has the ability to line up in a variety of alignments whether it be a 5 tech, 4i, or even as a standup wide nine. He demonstrates the physical strength at the point of attack in the run game, locking out the offensive lineman and shedding them with ease to go make the play down the line of scrimmage. Shows to have a high motor as well, taking good angles to get to the ball carrier and finishing through on the tackle. His pass rush repertoire shows the power he uses to get to the quarterback, works half a man on the bull rush and gets after it. [player_tooltip player_id="275575" first="Matthew" last="Fobbs-White"] 6-3 230 Neville High School (Monroe, LA.) A solid technician at the defensive end position, knows when to strike and shows no wasted movement whether it be on a stunt or in his actual pass rush. The quality and effectiveness of his pass rush moves are a sight to be seen, good hand placement and the ability to sink and get under the opposing offensive tackle is awesome to watch. He demonstrates to have active consistent hand usage which allows him to disengage blocks quickly, disruptive playing ability for the next level. [player_tooltip player_id="276208" first="Alex" last="Sumler"] 6-2 230 McDonogh 35 High School (New Orleans, LA) The key word while watching him play is "explosive", has a quick first step and is very reactive to where the ball carrier is and makes consistent plays in the backfield. He uses his explosiveness to generate penetration against the run, demonstrates the ability to get under offensive lineman with good hand placement to stack and shed blocks as well. &nbsp; &nbsp;