2027’s Lockdown Defenders
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New Jersey is blessed with defensive backs that are getting reps early in their high school careers. With safeties and corners showcasing what they can do in 2023, much more is to come these next three years as these defensive…
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Continue ReadingNew Jersey is blessed with defensive backs that are getting reps early in their high school careers. With safeties and corners showcasing what they can do in 2023, much more is to come these next three years as these defensive backs develop into some of the best in the state.
A playmaker at the cornerback position, Braydon Bonfig Braydon Bonfig 5’11” | 165 lbs | ATH Pennington | 2026 NJ always seems to be in the right place at the right time to force a turnover. Picking the ball off 3 times at the varsity level, the Pennington defensive back excelled at breaking on the ball and dislodging it from the receivers hands. With quick play recognition, Braydon can close in on the receiver on the short routes, preventing them from making it to the second level.
Haddonfield’s Luca Lentini Luca Lentini 5’10” | 150 lbs | DB Haddonfield | 2027 State NJ will be a “no fly zone” defender in the very near future. Intercepting the ball 3 times last fall, I foresee him finding similar success these next three years. A twitchy defender, Luca can change directions quickly with a whip of the hips. Not afraid to take the runner head on, Luca will come up field to make the tackle up near the line.
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Don Bosco Prep has a very promising defender in Joaquin Phillips Joaquin Phillips 6’0″ | 180 lbs | DB Don Bosco Prep | 2027 State NJ . Lining up at the cornerback position, Joaquin utilizes his athleticism to go toe to toe with any receiver he is matched up against. Joaquin is another defender that can stop on a dime and change directions quickly to move up field. What stands out the most is Joaquin’s dimensions. His reach gives him a greater catch radius than most receivers he will face.
A great size for a defensive back already, Joaquin is also able to deliver punishing blows to any runner heading his direction. He will only get more impressive as the seasons continue.
Highlights
Terry Cook Terry Cook 5’10” | 170 lbs | DB Eastern Regional | 2027 State NJ has the potential to be a true lockdown cornerback. Picking the ball off 2 times in 2023, the Eastern defender lined up all across the defensive backfield last fall. Another player that doesn’t get beaten in coverage often, Terry has been one of the most impressive 2027 defenders I’ve seen so far. Doing an excellent job staying tight to the receiver, Terry forces a very small window for the QB to throw into. Able to get his arms in to breakup the ball, Terry is a terror to throw towards.