Wideouts Ready to Break Through in 2023
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Looking for some sleeper wide receivers? Well, you came to the right place! Today we’re looking at which wideouts are ready to break through this fall. Each of these youngsters displayed plenty of potential on tape in 2022 and I…
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Continue ReadingLooking for some sleeper wide receivers? Well, you came to the right place! Today we’re looking at which wideouts are ready to break through this fall. Each of these youngsters displayed plenty of potential on tape in 2022 and I think they’re ready to take that next step in their game.
As always, If you have someone you think I need to see, please DM them to me on Twitter at @hsfbscout!
Brady Clodfelder, 6’2″ 175, Villa Grove, 2024
Brady has the body control to adjust to a back shoulder ball and the grip strength to haul in tight contested throws. He’s got 4.5 speed, he uses his frame to hold positioning on jump balls and he’s a tough man to bring down after the catch. He plays for a small school but deserves much more attention than he’s getting.
Noah LaPorte, 6’5″ 205, Princeton, 2025
Noah has great change of direction for a man his size and is a buttery smooth route runner. He’s got subtle top-end speed, is an aggressive runner after the catch and he can make something happen in space. He needs to be on way more schools’ radars and I wouldn’t be shocked if he packed on some weight and moved to tight end at the next level.
Luke Mailander Luke Mailander 6'0" | 175 lbs | WR York | 2024 State IL 6′ 175, York, 2024
Luke uses different route tempos to confuse defensive backs, he’s got great build-up speed and can challenge defenses vertically. He’s an expert on doubles moves and consistently finds his way open off play-action. He understands zone coverage and how to exploit the holes within it and has a huge catch radius for a man his size.
Garrick Dickerson, 5’9″ 150, Bloomington, 2024
A shifty slot receiver that can make defenders miss in a phone booth. Garrick has outstanding vision and can spot even the smallest cutback lanes. He’s explosive at the top of his route and can separate from defenders. Don’t let his size fool you, this kid is a serious weapon.
Charlie Whelpley, 6’2″ 210, Batavia, 2024
Whelpey could potentially line up at tight end or wide receiver at the next level. He plays a physical brand of football and is willing to run through tacklers that get in his way. He’s a more than capable blocker that speeds his feet on contact and looks to bury opponents into the turf.
James Penley James Penley 5'10" | 170 lbs | ATH Nazareth Academy | 2025 State IL 5’10” 170, Nazareth, 2025
Penley was a standout on defense as a sophomore but also did some really good things on the offensive end as well. He’s got quick feet against press, he uses his arms to create downfield separation, and is a nightmare to tackle in space. This kid catches everything thrown his way and he can create a plethora of yards after the catch with little help. I think he’ll make a huge impact at wideout for the defending 5A champions this fall.