Preseason DL Set to Stand Out

Chris Norcross

July 12, 2022 @ 12:22 PM

While each of the players on this list has undoubtedly proven themselves to plenty of high school football fans, we also feel that there is still plenty of room for development, and for them to set themselves apart even more than they already have. Playing DL at a high level in high school is not only hard to do in the state of Georgia, but success in doing so is also held with a high level of respect as well. Below, we have included some of our favorite DL from GA, who we feel are set to stand out next season, and who are worth taking a look at this very moment. [player_tooltip player_id="165707" first="AJ" last="Hoffler"]- Woodward Academy As soon as you cut on his tape, it is evident that Hoffler is not only one of the most explosive defensive players in the state, but he is one of the most shifty and efficient off the line. Not only does he bend well, and change direction effectively, but he uses his hands and feet to his advantage, creating leverage, and transitioning power in his movement when rushing the passer. Hoffler also plays with a good bend, and he changes direction incredibly well for a young player. Moving into next season, we fully expect him to be one of the most productive players on his team, and in the state when it comes to DL. [player_tooltip player_id="133983" first="TJ" last="Searcy"]- Upson-Lee One of the things that is most impressive about Searcy is his versatility to play both DL, and OL. This is largely due to his size, as well as the way that he moves and bends well off of the ball. Because of this, when it comes to defense, you can see him play on the line, but also outside in coverage due to his speed, and ability to make plays in pursuit. Searcy not only uses his hands well, but has the burst necessary to position himself well enough to stop ball carriers at the line of scrimmage, or burst through the line to stop the passer. Searcy also has a great frame and build, and we expect him to continue to develop in this regard next season as well. [player_tooltip player_id="320343" first="Stephiylan" last="Green"]- Rome Off the ball, Green is not only efficient with his hands, but he has the quick feet, and natural ability to play DL that you like to see out of a kid his size, and length. Not only does he pressure the passer well, but he has developed great pass rush moves for a kid his age. He not only plays at a good pad level, but he rolls his hips effectively, while using his speed, and bend to position himself to make tackles in pursuit. Even with the polished talent that Green already has, he is a bit raw in the way that he false steps, and has wasted movement at times. Look for him to develop in this area, and to be a lethal weapon for his defense next season. [player_tooltip player_id="165706" first="Zavion" last="Hardy"]- Tattnall Square Out of each of the prospects on this list, Hardy happens to be one of the most physical, and biggest players. Making big hits, or making opposing players feel his physical contact is easy for him. Not only does he get in and out of his breaks well, but he also changes direction to make tackles behind the line of scrimmage, or in pursuit. He uses his hands and feet well, but can move a bit slow at times, which proves a need for him to continue to develop in his raw talent, and ability to play DL.