Young Stars Impress at MI Prospect Showcase
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Last weekend’s Prospect Showcase did not disappoint. This event featured just under 80 athletes competing for some respect and exposure. With colleges in attendance, there were a few current underclassmen that are worth shouting out. Standouts TE | Holden Niemi…
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Continue ReadingLast weekend’s Prospect Showcase did not disappoint. This event featured just under 80 athletes competing for some respect and exposure. With colleges in attendance, there were a few current underclassmen that are worth shouting out.
Standouts
TE | Holden Niemi Holden Niemi 6'4" | 225 lbs | TE Dexter | 2027 State MI | Dexter | 2027
I’m surprised Holden doesn’t have any Division 1 offers right now. I’d seriously be shocked if this kid isn’t one of the biggest recruits in Michigan in a year. Holden measures in at 6’4″ 218 lbs, with some great testing numbers for a freshman. From the eye test, his frame looks strikingly similar to that of Brady Prieskorn Brady Prieskorn 6'6" | 230 lbs | TE Rochester Adams | 2024 State MI . With a few great years in the weight room, Holden could reach the physical prowess that Brady was able to achieve.
In terms of testing, Hodlen ran a 4.93 40, 4.81 shuttle, 8’1″ broad, and 8.03 L-Dril. Some great numbers for a freshman of his size
Holden demonstrated elite route-running ability, body control, and knows how to win 50/50 balls. Time and time again he was able to box out defensive backs, track the ball, and keep his balance through the catch. It’s apparent that although he’s a freshman, Holden has rare athleticism and a ton of natural talent. He was far and away the best tight end at camp, and the overall most impressive prospect showcased.
RB | Garlands Randolph Garlands Randolph 5'5" | 160 lbs | RB H.H. Dow | 2026 State MI | H.H. Dow | 2026
I remember watching Randolph’s film about a year ago and being pretty impressed. After watching him last weekend, I can confidently say this dude’s a stud.
Starting out, Garlands measures out at 5’5″ 1/2 and 164 pounds. It’s apparent that he’s putting in the necessary time on and off the field to take care of his body; he’s a well-built RB. In terms of running, think Isaiah Pacheco. Garlands running can look a bit awkward and out of control sometimes, but that said he runs HARD. Every drill, 1on1, route, he ran was done with 200% effort and intensity. He also demonstrated some good change of direction and overall explosiveness. He also got open often on his routes, though his hands can use some work.
Overall a great showing from a prospect I’ve been wanting to see in person for a while. My gut feeling is he’s on track to be a GLIAC prospect.
OL | Sullivan Garvin Sullivan Garvin 6'5" | 300 lbs | OL Allegan | 2026 MI | Allegan | 2026
Out of an OL group full of unknown names, Sullivan stood out as the best.
First off, Sullivan has a solid build at 6’5″ 291. The Allegan sophomore stood out with some of the most polished pass set techniques at camp, with a good punch and great balance. Considering Allegan is a smaller D5 school, his pass blocking was especially impressive. I did see Sullivan get beat a few times by speedier rushers, but it’s super important to point out that he took coaching immediately and never made the same mistake twice. Even when he did get beat, his recovery was as consistent and efficient as anybody at camp. If Sullivan can continue to impress at camps throughout this offseason, I could see him drawing interest from the GLIAC.
QB | Ryland Watters Ryland Watters 6'2" | 205 lbs | ATH Rochester Adams | 2026 State MI | Rochester Adams | 2026
Ryland is another one of those guys that I’ve been wanting to see in person for some time.
The first thing that stands out about Ryland is the eye test. Considering he’s a Veer QB, he fits the mold quite well. An athletic 6’2″ 208lb build with the testing numbers to back it up. 4.75 Shuttle and 8’8″ broad jump are two standout numbers. In terms of athletic drills and physical prowess, Ryland was exactly what I’d expect from a great option QB. In terms of his throwing, it was just as I expected. Some decent throws, but overall, nothing I’m super blown away by. But that’s expected and not at all a knock because of the system he runs. I know this guy works super hard in the offseason, and I expect to see another jump in his game come next fall!