Illinois’ Top 2024 Defensive Linemen
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Today, I’m looking at the top-rising senior defensive linemen in Illinois as we prepare for the fall of 2023. The group is led by Justin Scott Justin Scott 6'5" | 315 lbs | DL St. Ignatius | 2024 State IL…
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Continue ReadingToday, I’m looking at the top-rising senior defensive linemen in Illinois as we prepare for the fall of 2023. The group is led by Justin Scott Justin Scott 6'5" | 315 lbs | DL St. Ignatius | 2024 State IL of St. Ignatius one of the nation’s top overall prospects. I decided to leave out edge players of this piece, however, there may be a guy or two on here that may project there at the next level.
As always, If you have someone you think I need to see, please DM them to me on Twitter at @hsfbscout!
Justin Scott Justin Scott 6'5" | 315 lbs | DL St. Ignatius | 2024 State IL St. Ignatius
The clear number one overall prospect in the state of Illinois, and an absolute menace on the inside. Size, twitch, strength, and bend.
Dillan Johnson Dillan Johnson 6'1" | 280 lbs | DL Joliet Catholic Academy | 2024 State IL Joliet Catholic
A sudden interior prospect with violent hands, a strong anchor, and uses his wrestling background to his advantage.
Marquise Lightfoot Marquise Lightfoot 6'5" | 225 lbs | DL Kenwood Academy | 2024 State IL Kenwood
A lengthy defensive end with a projectable frame, a fiery get-off, and a non-stop motor. Has a very high ceiling in my eyes.
Ivan Moore Jr., Kenwood
Explosive off the snap, can generate lock-out & quickly rip off in the run game. Probably will be an edge at the next level.
Nick Cairo, Lake Park
Has a good first step for a big man, can instantly disengage in the run game, and is constantly chasing the football on tape.
Sirmaine Campbell, Rich South
A tough, flexible run stuffer that plays with a low pad level and can split opposing double teams on the inside.
Eddie Tuerk Eddie Tuerk 6'4" | 265 lbs | DL Lyons Township | 2024 State IL Lyons
A four-year starter with plenty of production, he’s surprisingly slippery at the point of attack and engulfs ball carriers as a tackler.
Ethan Aghakhan Ethan Aghakhan 6'2" | 250 lbs | DL Stevenson | 2024 State IL , Stevenson
His numbers speak for themself, as he accounted for over 70 tackles & 12 sacks. He’s such a creative pass rusher that can get to the quarterback in a multitude of ways.
Joe Barna, Wheaton North
A contributor on North’s 2021 state championship team that shows relaxed hips around the edge, heavy hands, and the ability to put speed to power.
Bryan Wilson, Eisenhower
A tweener with quick hands, explosive change of direction, and the ability to alter rush tempos to confuse tackles.
Jake Furtney Jake Furtney 6'5" | 230 lbs | DL St. Charles North | 2024 State IL St. Charles North
Strong at the point of attack, can make plays from the backside if left unblocked, and gets his hands up if he can’t get to the quarterback.
William Depaepe, Moline
Impressive vertical stature, has a motor that’s constantly running and can eat up man protection on the backside as a pass rusher.
Mikeshun Beeler Mikeshun Beeler 6'3" | 260 lbs | DL Simeon | 2024 State IL Simeon
Has some serious juice off the snap, showed a nasty push-pull that mixes in a dip & rip, and has a compact swim move ready when needed.
Maverick Ohle Maverick Ohle 6'2" | 245 lbs | DL Naperville Central | 2024 State IL Naperville Central
Undervalued in my eyes based on his speed, god-given strength, flexibility, and pure will.
Joe Kelly Joe Kelly 6'2" | 265 lbs | DL Loyola Academy | 2024 State IL Loyola
Film was limited due to injury, but he flashed proving that he can generate instant penetration and will never stop working as a rusher.
Carlos Hazelwood, Tinley Park
A raw athlete equipped with a 6’9″ wing span, outstanding body control, and the ability to create knockback.