Senior Sleepers: Seven 2023 WRs
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Playing under the lights on Friday nights has ended for the class of 2023. This may be the end of the high school chapter, but that does not mean this is the conclusion for every story. The path to college…
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Continue ReadingPlaying under the lights on Friday nights has ended for the class of 2023. This may be the end of the high school chapter, but that does not mean this is the conclusion for every story.
The path to college football is easier for some than others, leaving many players with question marks regarding their next chapter.
Below is a list of seven talented wide receivers who stood out in multiple positions during their senior season.
Peterson is one of the more talented athletes in the state and an unstoppable force as a receiver and defender. His initial introduction to the radar came during the 3A state final game in the 2020 season, and his stock never stopped rising. He is a physical player whose dominant playing style significantly impacted his team winning the state championship this season. Peterson checks all the boxes on and off the field, making him a stud who will immediately increase the firepower of whichever program is lucky enough to land him as a recruit.
Dooley is one of the more dynamic athletes in the state, making his underrated status as a recruit baffling. No matter where he lines up on the field, his skills make him instantly stand out. His explosive releases, shifty route running, reliable hands, and overall speed are everything that college programs look for in a slot receiver. He is so dangerous as a ball carrier that he quickly becomes a player for coaches to scheme up ways to get the ball in his hands. Dooley’s size is the only fathomable reason for him to still be so underrated, which is a shame because he is a sleeper with elite talent.
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Gomez is a do-all athlete who is no stranger to being a game-changer on the field. His acceleration and overall speed make him a problematic opponent wherever he lines up. His route running is truly impressive, especially when getting in and out of his breaks. He does a fantastic job attacking the ball in the air and immediately getting upfield for yards after the catch. In addition to being an outstanding receiver, Gomez is a show-stopping returner and ball-hawking defensive back.
Dykstra is another athlete who is difficult to contain, especially when the ball is in his hands. He has breakaway speed and excellent vision as a ball carrier, making him an ideal candidate for a team in need of a return man. His physicality and toughness give him the fortitude needed to catch in traffic while coming across the middle of the field. Dykstra is a standout player who has garnered a little buzz, yet he remains an underrated sleeper.
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Lauer is one of the more grossly overlooked athletes in his class, primarily because of where he played. His career consisted of being the team’s top receiver year after year while also filling in as the number one cornerback on defense. His length gives him a wide catch radius, and his athleticism makes him a prime target when matched one-on-one. Lauer is a highly coachable player who always strives to improve his skills and techniques to prove his value as a prospect, making him another underrated steal as a potential recruit.
Juarez is a player who emerged on the scene and had a breakout performance during his senior year. His primary position was cornerback, but he moved over to receiver midway through the season and became a top player en route to a 4A state title. His overall speed, athleticism, and competitive nature made him a spotlight stealer as an offensive player. Juarez is a very talented student-athlete whose 4.0 GPA makes him a no-brainer for college scouts who need a difference-maker.
Perruccio popped up on the radar during his sophomore year but has yet to garner the recruiting attention he rightfully deserves. The 6-foot-3 receiver has the versatility needed to be an outside receiver with deep-threat abilities or a tight end who can line up wide or nasty split and get his hands on linebackers if needed. Perruccio is an impressive player whose on-field accomplishments solidify his potential as a true sleeper.