The Watch List Series: Class of ‘25 Part II
With the next Class of ’25 rankings update inching closer, the Watch List series provides another in-depth look at more potential candidates. Our search for the next group of newcomers takes us to parts of central and southern Kansas, as we highlight…
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Continue ReadingWith the next Class of ’25 rankings update inching closer, the Watch List series provides another in-depth look at more potential candidates. Our search for the next group of newcomers takes us to parts of central and southern Kansas, as we highlight five prospects hailing from Class 5A down to Class 3A. Each of these prospects earned varsity playing time in 2022, and four of them even picked up All-League honors. After one season of varsity experience underneath their belts, look for these juniors to take their game to another level during the ’23 campaign.
Treeman Wesley
Treeman Wesley
Treeman Wesley of Pittsburg starts off this second Watch List for the Class of ’25. Wesley is an underrated two-way lineman that folks need to be excited about this season. During his sophomore year, the Purple Dragons’ staff utilized Wesley’s athleticism by having him fill in at both tackle positions, and they used his quickness off the edge on defense. The 6-foot-3, 220-pound prospect has a raw skillset on both sides of the ball, but his upside makes him intriguing. He’s already showcased his abilities in front of the Oklahoma Sooners’ coaching staff, and he could possibly earn more camp invitations throughout this summer.
Christian McDonald
Christian McDonald
This year’s Maize South squad is receiving quite the praise for their talent on offense. There are definitely some notable players headlining that unit, but folks shouldn’t overlook some of their defensive prospects. For example, Christian McDonald will be a key player returning in their secondary this season. McDonald showed zero fear during his sophomore year, as he emerged as one of the Mavericks’ better run defenders from their secondary. The 5-foot-10, 156-pound defensive back is very physical for his size, and he possesses the speed to erase big plays down the field and can quickly limit ball carriers to short gains.
Tyrus Young
Tyrus Young
The Class of ’25 rankings features a number of athletes capable of being difference makers at multiple positions. In the next update, Tyrus Young of Salina Central will look to join that impressive group of prospects. Young proved to be a promising two-way player for the Mustangs last fall. Offensively, Young was an exceptional run blocking tight end, which is the position he earned All-League honors at. But, an argument could be made that he should’ve received honors for his play at linebacker as well. The 6-foot-1, 200-pound prospect finished fourth on the team in total tackles with 54 on the season.
Fisher Dye
Fisher Dye
Some may disagree, but one positive about a struggling varsity squad is the opportunity to assess younger talent. This unfortunately was the case for the Mulvane Wildcats in 2022. But during this process, the Wildcats’ staff was able to find their lead running back for the next two seasons. Fisher Dye burst onto the scene for the Wildcats last season, and proved to be one of Mulvane’s most dynamic players. Despite being just 5-foot-8 156 pounds, Dye isn’t a back that will go down easy. He displays great balance through contact, and he is elusive in the open field. Dye is also a threat in the passing game and as a return man on special teams.
Tristan Gorden
Tristan Gorden
Another running back from this class that impressed during the ’22 campaign was Tristan Gorden of Perry-Lecompton. Some may not be familiar with the Class 3A product, but that’s likely to change this season. The Kaws featured Gorden as their lead back during his sophomore year, and he went on to lead them in rushing by a substantial margin. Gorden finished his first varsity season rushing for 675 yards on 113 carries and scored five touchdowns. Perry-Lecompton also utilized his pass catching ability, as Gorden hauled in 18 receptions for 234 yards and one score. The Kaws are sure to make Gorden the focal point of their offense during his junior year.