Sophomores That Could Take a Big Step Forward in 2023
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The season is getting closer and we’re going to continue to provide coverage on some of Illinois’s best. Today we’re looking at a group of 2025 prospects that I think could take big strides in 2023. Each one of these…
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Continue ReadingThe season is getting closer and we’re going to continue to provide coverage on some of Illinois’s best. Today we’re looking at a group of 2025 prospects that I think could take big strides in 2023. Each one of these young men contributed at the varsity level as a sophomore and I believe the upside is most certainly there.
As always, If you have someone you think I need to see, please DM them to me on Twitter at @hsfbscout!
DB: Wyatt Mueller, 6’1″ 190, Quincy Notre Dame
On tape, Mueller shows plus ball skills, refined body control, and is a fearless tackler. He’s got a good frame for the safety position, is always closing on ball carriers, and plays an urgent brand of football.
OL: Jacob Benson Jacob Benson 6'4" | 300 lbs | OL Hononegah | 2025 State IL 6’5″ 280, Hononegah
Benson flashed on tape at times, showing a firm punch, extensive turnover on his knee drive, and the ability to reach five techniques on called sprint outs. He plays with a wide base and gets his steps in the ground. If he can show consistency in his first step and nastiness, he’s going to develop nicely next season.
DB: Grant Gensler Grant Gensler 6'1" | 185 lbs | DB Rochelle Township | 2025 State IL 6′ 165, Rochelle
Gensler can identify passing concepts and break on the football. He’s got tight footwork and consistently stays over the top in zone. He has great ball skills for a young defensive back and can provide run support within the box.
QB: Bradyn Little Bradyn Little 6'0" | 195 lbs | QB Quincy Sr. | 2025 State IL 6′ 195, Quincy Senior
Little’s production in 2022 speaks for itself, throwing for 2,772 yards and 24 touchdowns as a sophomore. On tape, he’s always on time, throws well on the move, and can drop the deep ball right into the bucket. He can fit the football through tight windows for cover two-hole shots and can get the ball out of his hand quickly against the rush.
OL: Dontrall Fort, 6’5″ 325, Jefferson
Fort has room to grow from a technical standpoint but has physical gifts that can be refined. He’s strong as a bull, can move down linemen against their will, and is quick to the point of attack. He’s flexible & can bend and has the feet to set to wide rushers off the edge.
OL: Hunter Gale, 6’5″ 315, Rock Falls
Gale is patient as a pass protector, can control second-level blocks, and has a durable base. He’s got quick feet for a big man, is flexible, and can read & react to counter moves on the fly. If he too can show some on-field attitude, his stock will move up quickly.