’25s Who Put Themselves on the Map in ’23
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Use code Johnson30 for 30% off a new PRZ WI subscription! The Class of 2025 is shaping into a group that is going to push 2024 for one of the best we have seen this state produce. There are going…
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The Class of 2025 is shaping into a group that is going to push 2024 for one of the best we have seen this state produce. There are going to be several Power 5 scholarship athletes in this Class, not to mention the depth looks strong as well for the FCS-D3 levels. The rankings already have a lot of talent, but these athletes in today’s article are set to be added to that group and shake things up.
An athlete who is going to shake things up in the rankings is Kimberly’s leading tackler on their stout 2023 defense. Braeden is growing into a next level frame that is currently 6’3″ 205 lbs. The ILB has a wide array of tools to continue to develop and strengthen. The junior led his team in tackles thanks in big part to his high end instincts for the position. Ellefson is quick to read and recognize OL flow, and movement of the backs/QB. Braedon also has a an effective base of athleticism so he can move with the flow of the play and meet ball carriers right in the hole while also avoiding blocks. The junior has a good closing burst. The overall range is also effective, allowing him to chase down plays from behind or chase down the ball outside the tackles. Make sure to have Braedon on your boards early on.
Highlights
The All Conference DB & All Region WR out of Port Washington is a definite athlete to know. On offense, Josh possesses agility, acceleration, and balance to be an absolute menace out in space. Before the catch, Arnold uses those athletic traits to run sharp, sudden routes that DBs at this level have a hard time running with. After the catch, Josh has powerful jukes and jump cuts that left DBs tackling air. Arnold also has the pure speed to get behind safeties to rip the top off the defense. Lastly, Josh has soft hands that naturally catch the ball. Those same dominant traits flash on defense as well. Check out the strong film.
An intriguing safety prospect in the Class of 2025 is Indian Trail’s Brad Filippis Brad Filippis 6’0″ | 175 lbs | DB Indian Trail | 2025 State WI . The 6′ 175 lbs junior has an exciting highlight reel. Right off the bat, I am impressed by the feet, hips, and overall ability to change direction. He is able to go from backpedal to attacking downhill, or take off in any direction from his backpedal smoothly. He has good acceleration, and closes quickly. The safety also is a reliable tackler who you can trust to be the last line of defense or drop down into the box to help against the run. The range Brad plays with also jumps off the tape. He reads plays quickly, and wastes no time attacking the ball. It is fun watching his tape as he flies around the field making plays, and playing faster than everyone else. Keep an eye on Brad. I’m excited to see where he debuts in the rankings.
Highlights
A new QB on my radar, and one to get on yours, is the massive 6’4″ 205 lbs junior out of Fort Atkinson. The big QB is able to generate a solid amount of velocity on his passes when needed to push the ball downfield. It also comes in clutch when he is forced to throw off his back foot or can’t step into the pass because of pressure. Rocco is a poised passer who doesn’t panic or bail from the pocket early. He keeps his eyes downfield. The highlights show a passer who can be accurate to any level of the field, even when on the run or with pressure in his face. I’m excited to see him take a step in his development next season. Get him into camp this summer to check out the frame and arm live.
A hidden gem on the DL is Brady Bortz Brady Bortz 6’4″ | 255 lbs | DL Kiel | 2025 State WI out of Kiel High School. The junior has a stout 6’4″ 255 lbs frame that has a lot of room to add plenty more size. Right away on tape, it is clear that Brady has next level first step burst and closing speed. The junior has a solid blend of power and range to be able to maintain outside leverage, even when the offense is trying to get outside him. He can hold his edge with a solid anchor against the run. Brady also plays OL and his athleticism allows him to easily get in position to wall off DL. This is a hidden gem to check out and watch over this next year.