#PRZMI Showcase Gamechangers

Alex Pallone December 18, 2022 @ 05:42 PM

When I asked the line coaches about the top performers, all pointed at Ben Nichols Ben Nichols 6'6" | 325 lbs | OL Davison | 2026 State MI . The ceiling on this kid is huge, and we could be looking at a D1 prospect. Nichols was consistently winning against senior D-Linemen and already has a great fundamental foundation. Obvious great size, and good strength. I'm very much looking forward to Ben's progression over the next few years!

DL | Jaxson Engelberg Jaxson Engelberg 6'2" | 260 lbs | DL Caledonia | 2024 State MI | 6'2" 240 | 2024 | Caledonia

On the defensive side of the line, Jaxson performed best. I'm not surprised, based on how great Cal's defense was this season. Jaxson had a great first step with violent hands and was pretty much unblockable. During the testing portion, it looks like he performed well. I know Jaxson is usually busy during the offseason, so I'm looking forward to seeing him compete elsewhere in the near future.

RB | Kellen Russell-Dixon Kellen Russell-Dixon 5'10" | 185 lbs | RB Grand Rapids Catholic Central | 2024 State MI | 5'10" 180 | 2024 | Grand Rapids Catholic Central

Russell-Dixon was the best, most consistent Running Back at the showcase today! I absolutely love his athleticism and twitchiness. There were multiple instances where he juked defenders and left people in the dust. I don't think I saw him drop the ball all day, and I predict his testing numbers will be incredible. I know from watching him in person that he's not afraid to get hit, either. Get ready for a monster 2023 season from Russell-Dixon!

LB | Carter Hladki Carter Hladki 5'10" | 200 lbs | LB Birmingham Groves | 2026 State MI | 5'10" 175 | 2026 | Birmingham Groves

Many coaches had good things to say about Hladki today. A young 2026 prospect, Carter was flying all over the field with great technique. He looked really good in coverage, and when he did slip up, he knew exactly what he needed to fix. In addition, he passed the eye test, especially for a 2026 player. This could be a D1 prospect in a few years!

WR | Connor ORourke Connor ORourke 5'11" | 175 lbs | WR Mattawan | 2025 State MI | 5'10" 160 | 2025 | Mattawan

Expectedly, ORourke performed great today! Multiple coaches pointed him out as a top performer. His route running is always elite, and his overall athleticism is great. He passes the eye test and is an overall great player. He's a college prospect and will receive more attention very soon. I'm curious to see his testing numbers this time around!

QB | Grant Hetherton Grant Hetherton 6'2" | 185 lbs | QB Brighton | 2024 State MI | 6'2 185 | Brighton

Look out for Grant next season! As McKernan's backup, Grant was always next man up. Now, he's showing he's the real deal and has an opportunity to vastly outperform expectations. Everyone I talked to that dealt with QBs/WRs pointed Hetherton out. He can sling it with precise accuracy and was likely the QB MVP for today. Immensely excited to see Hetherton compete in the KLAA as Brighton's starter!