Underrated Defensive Line Prospects
The big nasties are a crucial piece to any defense. That’s why today we looked at some of most underrated defensive linemen in all of Michigan. These guys have flashed plenty of potential on film but have yet to see…
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Continue ReadingThe big nasties are a crucial piece to any defense. That’s why today we looked at some of most underrated defensive linemen in all of Michigan. These guys have flashed plenty of potential on film but have yet to see much-recruiting attention. They range from freshmen who played on varsity all the way to juniors who played a major leadership role for their respective programs. These guys are flying under the radar right now but could see their stock rise quickly.
Laurent Dounamou, 6’3″ 250, Taylor, 2023
A good-sized five technique that could easily add size and kick-down inside. Laurent plays with a low pad level and has a strong base to anchor down in the run game. This is a big man that plays with a relentless motor on tape and will chase plays down from the backside until the whistle is blown. He shows excellent body control as he can come to balance & make tackles in the backfield against shiftier players in 1 on 1 situations.
Mason Mayne, 6’3″, 235, Lawton, 2025
The youngest prospect featured, and man did he flash on film. Mayne shows an explosive get-off, violent hands, and the ability to get skinny through a double team. He can create immediate knock back off the snap and cause plenty of disruption in the backfield. This kid is a gamer, and the stage never seemed too big for him despite his age.
Jason Casey, 6’2″ 240, H. H. Dow, 2024
An intelligent interior defensive line prospect with a quick first step. Casey shows active hands, a compact swim move, and is just downright slippery in the run game. He’s a hustler through and through with overall solid lateral quickness. I think he needs to continue to add size and if he does, I believe it’ll take his game to the next level,
Jake Punches, 6’ 230, Clare, 2024
Don’t let his height fool you, this kid is a dominant force as a pass rusher. Jake’s speed and quickness gave tackles & guards serious issues. He uses his natural leverage to his advantage, slipping blocks on the inside, resulting in an abundance of TFL’s. He’s a nightmare to single block and someone I’d strongly recommend sliding to in pass protection.
Connor Smith, 6’2″ 230, Lumen Christi, 2023
A loose-hipped defensive end that can run the hoop. Smith shows a powerful bull rush and can create lockout instantly. He’s agile through traffic and has a fiery lower half. He keeps his shoulders square to the line when unblocked and has shown he can literally take both the quarterback and dive man.