New Jersey 2028 Watchlist Vol.1 – Defensive Backs
In this article:
The first installment of the New Jersey 2028 Watchlist is LIVE! Volume 1 of this list features nearly 150 prospects, has been released. It is not a complete list and is being updated weekly, behind the scenes. There will be multiple official updates leading…
Access all of Prep Redzone Next and Prep Redzone
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingThe first installment of the New Jersey 2028 Watchlist is LIVE! Volume 1 of this list features nearly 150 prospects, has been released. It is not a complete list and is being updated weekly, behind the scenes. There will be multiple official updates leading up to mid-August, when this 2028 class starts being considered high school prospects.
Here’s a look at the seatbelts that made the initial list, in alphabetical order.
– Played for Brick City
– Won AYF National Championship as a 7th grader
A rocked up corner with the build of an action figure right now. As sure of a tackler as defensive back, that you will find anywhere in the country in this 2028 class. Will not hesitate to take out the knees of anyone who has the ball. Can also be used in the return game on special teams. Only thing lacking right now is height, which is average.
– Played for Matawan/Silk City
– Well-traveled athlete who goes everywhere in the state to compete
A reclassed kid that has gone from being very good last year, to one of the best in the state this season. Could probably be listed as an athlete, but I take a special liking to him in the secondary. He has good natural instincts and uses his eyes well in the secondary. Covers a good amount of ground in quick order, when deciding to attack the ball/man.
Highlights
– Played for Silk City
– Already hearing from Rutgers, other schools
Evans is a proven stud on the outside as a true corner back. He’s a confident kid that isn’t afraid to put his toes up on the line and play press coverage against anybody in the state. Great hips allow him to turn and run stride for stride with most. Suffered a leg injury as a seventh-grader that derailed most of his season, but he’s more than made up for it.
Highlights
– Played for Asbury Park
– Won AYF 14U All-Star National Championship this year
There isn’t a kid on this initial list that I like more as a person, than Goodman-Ware. A positive, upbeat kid whose skill set as a cover corner match his personality. Plays like a rubber band and snaps himself into position. Phenomenal ball skills. Understands limitations with height and balances when to go for the INT or simply knock it down.
– Played for Millville
– South Jersey Track and Field State Champion
In full disclosure, I have not seen him play live yet; But on film, Jones is my top defensive back in New Jersey for this 2028 class. Was clocked at a 11.20 in the 100m last spring and has only gotten faster. Jones hits better than most linebackers, runs faster than most running backs and plays with bad intentions on every snap. Versatile enough to play corner or safety right now. He’s going to be a special one.
– Played for East Orange
– Has shadowed at many top private high schools in the state
East Orange has a reputation for being a rougher neighborhood, but has also produced some talented defensive backs–namely Jabrill Peppers (1st round pick in 2017, currently on New England Patriots) and (3rd round pick in 2017, currently on Buffalo Bills). Lawrence has all the makings of following in their footsteps. Comes with great speed and long legs as a safety, to help him cover ground.
Highlights
– Played for Silk City
– Has an identical twin brother
On the short side right now, but very quick and dangerous on the field. Another East Orange native thriving. Very fast and versatile on the field. Could easily see him playing corner or slot on the next level. Scrappy kid that can play in trail all the way across the field to bait quarterbacks, but can then turn on the jets to catch up and punch the ball away.
Highlights
Defensive Backs That Could Slide Onto The Watchlist
Deven Love Deven Love DB NJ | St. Barts
Dominic Rodriguez Dominic Rodriguez 5'6" | 140 lbs | DB NJ | St. Barts
Demani Sutherland Demani Sutherland 5'8" | 130 lbs | DB NJ | Newark