Breakout Prospects in Albany For 2022

Matt DeBary July 16, 2022 @ 08:49 AM

Every year, the town of Albany finds a way to produce some of the state’s under the radar talent. The Southwest Georgia area knows how to play football, and there’s always talent to be found there. There are a few prospects in the area bound for breakout seasons this fall, and Prep Redzone has the latest on them below...   Deandre Chatmon - Westover One of the top EDGE defenders in the Albany area, Chatmon is a reliable defender who knows how to attack the passer. He’s a tough, physical defender at6-foot-3 235-pounds and has a great motor. He runs well for his size and uses his quick, strong hands to get off blocks and get into the backfield. He delivers a big hit when untouched and leaves a bruise when he meets the ball-carrier. He can be too quick for opposing offensive tackles and has a chance to have a dominant senior season. Chatmon is excellent against the run, sets the edge and forces the back inside. He’s also tough enough to fight off double teams and make a tackle around the line of scrimmage. He’s a true breakout candidate in the area on defense and expected to live in the backfield all season.   [player_tooltip player_id="329363" first="Johnny" last="Cauley"] - Monroe One of the top two-way players in the area, Cauley is one of the hardest-hitting defensive backs in the region and can make plays on all three phases of the game. He has a long frame at 6-foot-2 180-pounds with above-average ball skills. As a defender, Cauley reacts quickly in the run game and knows how to strike the ball carrier. He does a good job of putting his helmet on the ball and forcing a fumble, making him a true playmaker on defense. He was primarily a defensive back last year, but his natural ball skills and athleticism will give him opportunities to play some offense at receiver this fall. His length, physical presence, and overall toughness, combined with his athleticism should make him a breakout candidate in Albany this fall.   Ja’marcus Harris - Dougherty Arguably the best overall linebacker in Albany, Harris is an instinctive defender who can make plays against the run, and the pass. He shows good footwork, explosion, and the ability to make a play on the ball. He’s a versatile defender who can play safety or linebacker, making him a true leader on the defense. He led the region in both sacks and defensive touchdowns last year, so it’s safe to call him one of the top overall returning players in the area. He doesn’t have a giant offer list this second, but that could change this fall. His size may not blow anyone away, but he consistently flashes and makes big plays as a tough defender. He’s sneaky quick and just finds his way into the backfield with ease. IF not blocked properly, he can blow up any particular play. He’s a guy every quarterback has to have an eye on before the play, and he has a chance to have a giant season for Dougherty in 2022.