Stock Watch: Additional 2023 Players Trending Upwards

Chris Norcross

May 2, 2022 @ 06:06 PM

As the weeks progress on and on, even more players are further developing from spring ball, pushing them into their summer training regimes. Not only is this encouraging for football fans, as it is a sign that football is only a few months away, but it is also a great sign for scouts, and PrepRedzone alike, as we continue to see who is trending upwards going into next season. Below, we have added a few additional names to our list, including players who we think are very equipped to succeed at the next level, but are beginning to shine even more than they previously have, pointing them in an upward trajectory moving forward. [player_tooltip player_id="326557" first="Jalen" last="Woods"]- Woodward Academy (QB) Woods has already begun to receive some of the attention that is due to him because of his high athletic talent. Not only is he able to release the ball in a quick manner, but he also moves his feet very well in the pocket. When watching some of his tape, he reminds you of a player like Deshaun Watson as he always keeps his eyes downfield, but his athletic ability, and legs are too much of a threat to deny. In addition to this, he also has great ball placement and throws well on intermediate and short routes. He also plays well when it comes to the deep ball, but we would like to see more consistency in this area of play. In addition to this we like his vision of the field, and the ability to throw touch passes. If Woods can have a big season this year, look for him to receive more attention before he graduates. [player_tooltip player_id="326300" first="Shelton" last="Lewis"]- Stockbridge (CB) One of the things we like most about Lewis’ game is his ability to play both sides of the ball. Not only does he get in and out of his breaks quickly, but his footwork, and hips are very advanced for his age. His speed, and quick feet, continuously put him in a good place to make plays on the ball, and to pressure the opposing quarterback to throw the opposite way. In addition to this, he also shadows movement very well within man coverage. With this, he is also quick enough in zone coverage to be an immediate factor when the ball is in the air. [player_tooltip player_id="34030" first="Ian" last="Geffrard"]- Whitefield Academy (OT) One of the most fun things about watching Geffrard’s film is seeing the fact that he is a big body player, with the ability to make plays as soon as he gets off the ball. By this, we mean that he is long enough, and strong enough in his stance, to not only shield the passer, but to create lanes for the ball carrier. He plays with decent footwork, and he rolls his hips while on blocks, allowing him to be in position to use his hands and arms efficiently on blocks. Geffrard is also more athletic than he looks, as he is able to pull, and move around the field with ease. He finishes blocks well, making it easier for the ball carrier to move into the second level of the field. Look for him to continue to develop this upcoming season, and for his role on the team to grow as he becomes a senior Everett Roussaw- Cedar Grove (LB) Not only does Roussaw play at the ideal size and length for his position, but his speed and athleticism make him an even better player. He makes good plays in pursuit, as well as in the backfield when stopping ball-carriers. Roussaw may not wrap up the best at all times, but he uses his arms and has efficiently, allowing him to drag players for the ground. In addition to this, he may play a bit high at times as well, but he seems to understand how to read an offense, and react most naturally when a ball carrier or ball is coming his way. He also excels at rushing the passer, and making tackles in pursuit. Next season, look for him to make an incredible amount of tackles, and to decide where he wants to play in college.