Top 10 Players In the Class of 2024: Part 1

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The class of 2024 is loaded with elite talent. There are dynamic and talented players on both sides of the ball with various skills and physical traits that allow them to dominate the opposition. Here are the first five players in our top 10 for the class of 2024.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>10. [player_tooltip player_id='406962' first='Easton' last='Baker'] || LB || 6'0 || 205 || Stansbury High School || 2024</strong><br>Baker is our top-ranked linebacker in the class of 2024 and was the heart of one of the state's best defenses last season. The Stallions star backer can play on or off the ball and cause chaos and confusion in the front seven. He has a nose for the football and the sideline-to-sideline speed to make plays all over the field. Baker is one of the state's hardest hitters and a turnover machine. He does a great job getting the ball out and has the wheels to take it the other way for six. Baker is also an exceptional pass rusher who can go through or around elite offensive linemen. He should be in for another monster 2023 campaign.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>9. [player_tooltip player_id='406984' first='Josh' last='Andrus'] || TE || 6'3 || 215 || American Fork High School || 2024</strong><br>Andrus is an exceptional pass catcher and blocker. He decimates defenses with his ability to make plays all over the middle of the field and toss defenders out of the way to open up holes for his teammates in the ground game. Andrus's releases are outstanding, and his long strides help him separate from defenders. He is one of the state's best players at adjusting to the ball. If passes are thrown out in front of him, Andrus does a great job stopping his momentum and reaching back to secure the catch. His large catch radius allows him to make miraculous one-handed grabs. Andrus is one of the nations top tight ends and will only continue to make game-changing plays.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>8. [player_tooltip player_id='406997' first='Tevita' last='Valeti'] || RB || 6'0 || 195 || Springville High School || 2024</strong><br>Valeti was arguably the state's best back last season after leading Utah in rushing yards in the regular season. Springville's leading rusher is extremely difficult to take down between the tackles and in the open field. Valeti's ability to bounce off defenders is remarkable, and he possesses exceptional body control that allows him to keep his balance. His quick feet allow him to shred defenses with quick cuts that leave potential tacklers in the dust. In addition, Valeti possesses great vision he uses to maximize each carry. The talented back never seems to wear down, and he will more than likely lead the state in rushing yards once again this coming season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>7. [player_tooltip player_id='406960' first='Jensen' last='Somerville'] || OL || 6'7 || 260 || Lehi High School || 2024</strong><br>Somerville has been sensational for the Pioneers. He's an elite blindside protector who has helped the Lehi offense achieve great success. Somerville excels in pass protection with great technique. His footwork is sharp and helps him cut off defenders. Somerville is an elite athlete who moves well laterally and can take care of smaller defenders in the open field. He packs a powerful first punch, and his long reach helps him keep edge rushers from getting to the quarterback. In addition, Somerville is dominant in the run game, where he can open up holes and work up to the second level. Lehi's elite left tackle should be in for a big senior year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>6. [player_tooltip player_id='406980' first='La'akea' last='Kalama'] || WR || 5'10 || 180 || Skyridge High School || 2024</strong><br>Kalama is one of the state's top platemakers. As the Falcon's top pass catcher, he shredded defenses in the open field. He's one of the state's toughest players to tackle, regardless of classification. Kalama's ability to change direction, in an instance, helped him rack up plenty of yards after the catch. He can also amass yards after contact at an impressive rate, with his strength and balance enabling him to stay on his feet. He's an exceptional route runner who can beat any type of coverage and burn teams for six. Skyridges offense will once again be amongst the best in the state</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->